India’s largest iron ore producer, NMDC Ltd says it has always been a pioneer, pushing boundaries and setting benchmarks in the steel and mining industry. It has now established a new vertical dedicated to innovative technological advancements. Recently, this ‘Transformation and Innovation’ vertical was introduced into its Hyderabad head office, marking a new chapter in a move that NMDC says signifies not just change but a bold leap into the future.
The ‘Transformation and Innovation’ vertical will act as the engine driving NMDC’s Vision 2030 of achieving a 100 Mt/y production capacity, translating ambitious aspirations into actionable outcomes.
The department “aims to reimagine NMDC’s role in the industry and in the nation’s development.” Innovations such as the RopeCon Conveyor System, automated sampling systems, in-pit crushing & conveying systems and sandwich belt conveyors it says will exemplify NMDC’s commitment to sustainability, operational excellence and progress. “By focusing on transformative projects and continuous improvement, this new department will ensure that the Navratna company is not just prepared for the future but is actively shaping it.”
NMDC told IM that most of these technologies are at advanced study stage with some final decisions on what to move forward with expected in 2025/2026. Ganti SSV Suresh, the new NMDC Chief General Manager (CGM) – Transformation and Innovation added that it wants to bring new technologies into its Indian operations as much as possible through mutual cooperation and collaboration with technology suppliers, OEMs and consultants as well as contractors either on a PPP – Public Private Partnership (or Build Own Operate – BOO) basis to help accelerate the implementation and reduce risk. This new vertical is responsible for concept to commissioning of specific projects to be implemented. Using PPP, NMDC will share the capital investment and establish long-term operational efficiencies.
The company adds: “Since its inception in 1958, NMDC has symbolised resilience and growth. However, the dynamic industrial landscape demands continuous improvement. Recognising these evolving needs, NMDC’s leadership envisioned a dedicated department to foster a culture of innovation, enhance adaptability and enable faster decision-making.”
The team consists of six executives, including two Deputy General Managers (DGMs) and three Assistant General Managers (AGMs), and is led by Suresh the CGM. The CGM will report directly to the NMDC Chairman cum Managing Director (CMD) and the NMDC top management to enable faster decision-making and action. The vertical will focus on driving strategic initiatives that enhance the organisation’s competitive edge, foster a culture of innovation and ensure adaptability in the rapidly evolving market landscape.
From conceptualising new schemes and overseeing tendering activities to monitoring project execution, the department will focus on transformative projects and continuous improvements. As a responsible mining company, NMDC views this new department as a catalyst for positive change.
The projects that will be covered in the next 3-5 years will entail an investment of INR8,000 crore to INR10,000 crore which equates to about US$950 million to US$1.2 billion.
Commenting on its significance, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD (Additional Charge), NMDC, stated: “The Transformation and Innovation Department will not only provide solutions to existing challenges but also enable us to navigate the evolving ecosystem of the mining industry. This department will spearhead transformation, bringing cutting-edge technologies, many of which are first-of-their-kind in India’s mining sector. From cross-country conveying systems, buffer stockyards and blending yards to automated sampling, this initiative underscores our commitment to futuristic goals. Unlike a rigid organisation, NMDC will be a leader in driving change and path-breaking innovations, positioning itself as a global leader.”