IIT Kharagpur sets up AI-led mining research centre with Rs 15 crore backing from Vikram Sodhi

The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur has inaugurated a pioneering centre dedicated to harnessing artificial intelligence for advancements in geological and mining systems. This initiative, named the Vikram Sodhi Centre of Excellence for AI-enabled Geological and Mining Systems, has been established with a generous investment of Rs 15 crore over five years from Vikram Sodhi, who serves as Vice Chairman of Mineros SA and Managing Partner at Sun Valley Investments. This interdisciplinary research centre aims to drive a data-driven transformation in the mining sector by developing AI solutions specifically tailored to India's unique geological conditions. The institute has recognized that while digital technologies have made their way into segments of the mining value chain, their sporadic implementation has hindered significant improvements. The centre is set to focus on creating cohesive, mining-oriented AI systems designed to enhance exploration, mine planning, operations, safety, and environmental management within a comprehensive framework. Research conducted at the new facility will encompass the entire mining lifecycle, integrating areas such as exploration, mineral processing, predictive maintenance, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) analytics into a unified intelligence layer. A standout feature of this initiative is its industry-linked “grand challenges” program, which will utilize real-world datasets provided by industry partners to develop and test solutions in practical settings. Director Prof Suman Chakraborty highlighted that the establishment of the Vikram Sodhi Centre of Excellence represents a substantial enhancement of IIT Kharagpur's interdisciplinary research capabilities. He emphasized that by merging geological sciences, mining engineering, and artificial intelligence, the centre is ideally positioned to tackle complex national challenges through innovative and collaborative efforts.