IIT (ISM) Dhanbad to host national chemistry conference and critical minerals symposium

DHANBAD: IIT (ISM) Dhanbad will host the 45th Annual National Conference of the Indian Council of Chemists (ICC) from October 30 to November 1, alongside a dedicated symposium on critical minerals and rare earths, bringing researchers and scientific professionals together to discuss emerging developments in chemical sciences and their strategic applications.

Organised by the institute’s Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology under the aegis of the Indian Council of Chemists, the three-day conference will focus on research developments across chemical sciences and the role of critical materials in India’s technological and industrial transformation.

The parallel symposium, titled “Critical Minerals and Rare Earths: Catalyst for Technology and Industry Transformations for Viksit Bharat”, is scheduled for October 31. It will examine the growing importance of these resources in advanced technologies, industrial innovation and India’s efforts to strengthen self-reliance in critical materials.

Four scientific sections to feature research presentations

The conference will feature keynote addresses, invited lectures, oral presentations, poster sessions and scientific discussions across four sections: inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and analytical and environmental chemistry.

The programme will also include memorial lectures, an executive meeting and the general body meeting of the Indian Council of Chemists.

According to the conference’s second circular, the inaugural ceremony is scheduled for October 30 at 9.30 am at Penman Auditorium on the IIT (ISM) Dhanbad campus. Scientific sessions and presentations will continue over the following two days, with the valedictory function scheduled for November 1.

Conference dedicated to ICC founder Girish Chandra Saxena

The conference is dedicated to the memory of late Dr Girish Chandra Saxena (1940–2026), founder and architect of the Indian Council of Chemists.

The council has acknowledged his contribution to the advancement of chemical sciences and the development of the organisation. His work included promoting scientific research, academic engagement and collaboration within the chemistry community.

Focus on critical minerals and Viksit Bharat

The October 31 symposium will place critical minerals and rare earths at the centre of discussions on technological development and industrial competitiveness.

These materials are important for a range of advanced technologies and industrial applications. Their availability, processing and supply chains have become increasingly significant to countries seeking to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on external sources.

The symposium’s theme connects these strategic concerns with the national ambition of achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.

IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, with its location in Jharkhand’s mineral-rich region, provides an academic setting for discussions linking scientific research with mineral resources, industrial applications and technological development.

The conference is expected to provide a platform for researchers, academicians and professionals to exchange findings, build collaborations and explore emerging opportunities across chemical sciences.