Hyderabad: The Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC) to explore rare earth elements and critical minerals in the Singareni region.
The agreement was finalised on Monday at Singareni Bhavan, Hyderabad. SCCL Chairman and Managing Director N. Balram presided over the signing, while SCCL Director (P&P) K. Venkateswarlu and JNARDDC Director Dr. Anupam Agnihotri signed the documents.
MoU to strengthen scientific research and mining capacity
CMD N. Balram said the collaboration supports Singareni’s expansion into rare earth and critical minerals, both in India and abroad. He pointed out that early studies have already indicated the presence of such minerals in mine overburden, fly ash from the STPP, and nearby hill areas.
Through this partnership, Singareni will utilise JNARDDC’s technical knowledge and advanced laboratories. Moreover, the agreement includes provisions for joint studies, workforce training, and capacity-building programs in geosciences and mining technology.
JNARDDC brings critical expertise to mineral strategy
Dr. Agnihotri noted JNARDDC’s expertise in aluminium and rare earth element research, adding that the collaboration with Singareni is a natural fit. He emphasised that the MoU will support significant progress in locating and utilising critical mineral resources.
In addition, Balram highlighted that the partnership marks a strategic shift for Singareni toward diversified mining ventures and global cooperation. He stressed that the collaboration would also enhance India’s self-reliance in critical mineral resources through scientific and institutional synergy.