Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology (IMMT), Bhubaneswar hosting this year’s prestigious International Seminar on Mineral Processing Technology (MPT-2009), during 28-30 October, 2009 jointly with Indian Institute of Mineral Engineers. The event witnessed a congregation of more than 400 delegates, representing participation from over 8 countries. The MPT–2009 provides an ideal platform to the equipment manufacturer to showcase the latest developments in mineral technologies.

The mineral processing industries have significant contribution to our economy. As a national laboratory, IMMT provides essential expertise to the mineral processing industry with technical solutions based on its strong R&D experience—from process development to equipment design. In this context the MPT 2009’s theme topic on “Recent treads in mineral processing plant practices” assumes great significance in providing the opportunities for scientists, policy planners, industry CEOs and entrepreneurs to a common international forum where the latest advances in the specialized fields are shared amongst the participants both formally and informally.

The conference was inaugurated on 28th October 2009 by Prof. J. D. Miller, of University of Utah, USA, in presence of other leading industrialists and academician, including Dr. Mukesh Kumar, Chief Operating Officer, Vedanta Aluminium Ltd., Sri. A.D. Baijal, Vice President & Tata Steel Group Director, Global Mineral Resources. During the opening session Prof. K. A. Natarajan of IISC, Mr. L.B. Sukla of IMMT, were honored for their contribution to the field of Minerals science and engineering. The delegates and the Council Members were treated with an exceptional generosity due to financial support of the Indian mineral industry. Major financial support has been provided by M/s Essar Steel Ltd., M/s Jindal Steel & Power Ltd., & Vedanta Aluminium Ltd.

“Today the challenges faced by the mineral industry are quite different from those in the past. In recent times mining and mineral industries worldwide have witnessed unprecedented growth, while facing continuous challenges in exploitation of complex as well as low-grade ores,” says Prof B. K. Mishra, Organizing Committee Chair, MPT -2009 and Director, IMMT. “Providing land and water will be our main constraint. Clean technologies and environment compliance will be dictating the choice of process & technology. Against these odds, of course, there is still exciting times ahead for those who dare to innovate. MPT-2009 programme and follow up deliberations have been planned in such a manner that it would help each delegate to network—make friends from the minerals processing community. It is surely going to be a professionally rewarding seminar for the participants” says, Prof. B. K. Mishra.