Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Limited (GMDC) has achieved a significant milestone in its rare earths development strategy with the acquisition of indigenous processing technology from the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). The technology transfer ceremony took place on January 19, 2026, at BARC Campus, Trombay, marking a crucial step forward for India's critical mineral sector.

Technology Transfer Details

The transferred technology represents a fully indigenous solution developed specifically for GMDC's requirements. Key aspects of this development include:

The technology has been specifically designed to address ore-specific technical challenges associated with the Ambadungar deposit, providing GMDC with a robust pathway for processing the unique characteristics of this rare earth resource.

Implementation Strategy

GMDC has outlined a systematic approach for deploying the newly acquired technology. The company intends to begin with pilot-scale implementation, supported by continued technical assistance from BARC. This phased approach will enable comprehensive evaluation across multiple parameters:

• Process validation and optimization
• Recovery rate enhancement
• Environmental performance assessment
• Technical feasibility confirmation

The corporation plans to leverage its promoted institution, the International Center of Excellence in Mining Safety and Automation (iCEM) in Ahmedabad, for conducting pilot-scale operations and analytical testing activities. This strategic utilization of existing institutional capabilities is expected to optimize project timelines while strengthening overall technical competencies.

Strategic Significance

Shri Roopwant Singh, IAS, Managing Director of GMDC, emphasized the importance of this development, stating that the technology transfer represents an important step in GMDC's rare earths journey. He highlighted that this acquisition strengthens the company's ability to develop the project systematically and responsibly while building an end-to-end, future-ready rare earths value chain.

The Managing Director further noted that the company's focus remains on long-term value creation in alignment with India's critical mineral strategy and the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, underscoring the national significance of this technological advancement.

About the Ambadungar Project

The Ambadungar Rare Earth Project represents a significant component of GMDC's diversification strategy beyond its traditional lignite mining operations. The project involves processing hard-rock ankeritic ore to extract rare earth elements, which are critical for various high-technology applications and strategic industries.

The indigenous technology from BARC provides GMDC with the technical foundation necessary to advance this project through subsequent development phases, following successful pilot-scale validation and optimization.

Company Background

Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Limited operates as one of India's leading state-owned mining enterprises and a Public Sector Undertaking of the Government of Gujarat. The corporation currently operates five lignite mines across Kutch, South Gujarat, and the Bhavnagar region, supporting critical energy and industrial requirements. GMDC is recognized as the largest merchant seller of lignite in the country, with an established track record in responsible mining and resource development.

Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Limited (GMDC) has been assigned a provisional ESG rating of 77.7 (CareEdge-ESG 1) by CareEdge ESG Ratings Ltd., marking a significant milestone in the company's sustainability journey. The rating announcement was made on January 8, 2026, following a comprehensive independent assessment of the mining corporation's environmental, social, and governance practices.

ESG Assessment Details

The ESG evaluation was conducted through a rigorous process combining on-ground assessment and management engagement. The assessment included field visits to GMDC's operational assets and structured discussions with senior management at the Corporate Office during November 19-21, 2025.

The assessment was based on disclosures provided by GMDC as well as information available in the public domain. According to the rating agency, the assigned score places GMDC in the "Leadership" category for ESG risk management.

Leadership Category Recognition

The "Leadership" category designation reflects Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation's comprehensive approach towards governance systems, policy frameworks, disclosures, and performance parameters evaluated as part of the rating exercise. This recognition underscores the company's commitment to responsible business practices and transparency in operations.

The ESG rating forms part of GMDC's structured progression under the Environmental, Social, Governance Framework, reinforcing its focus on transparency, responsible business practices, and long-term value creation for stakeholders. This aligns with evolving sustainability and disclosure expectations in the mining sector.

Management Commentary

Commenting on the ESG rating achievement, Sh. Roopwant Singh, IAS, MD-GMDC, stated that "The ESG rating reflects GMDC's commitment to responsible growth that is anchored in strong governance, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. As a public sector enterprise, our focus remains on pursuing progress that is inclusive and support development that touches lives positively."

About GMDC

Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Limited is one of the leading mining players in India and a State Public Undertaking of the Government of Gujarat. The company currently operates five lignite mines located in Kutch, South Gujarat, and Bhavnagar region, and is reportedly the largest merchant seller of lignite in the country.

The ESG rating has been assigned by CareEdge ESG Rating based on its independent assessment methodology and does not constitute an investment recommendation.