Ministry of Mines

The Ministry of Mines is the central government ministry responsible for the survey, exploration, mining, and processing of mineral resources in India. Through its S&T-PRISM (Science and Technology Program for Research and Innovation in Startups and MSMEs) initiative, the ministry provides financial support for research and innovation in the mining, mineral processing, metallurgy, and recycling sectors.

S&T-PRISM offers funding spanning up to two years, designed to hand-hold startups and MSMEs to a stage where they can attract investments or secure loans from commercial banks and financial institutions. Implementation is overseen by the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC), Nagpur, an autonomous body under the ministry that acts as a facilitator for startups and MSMEs, offering mentorship, incubation support, and technical advisory assistance. The scheme promotes applied and sustainable advancements in mining and industrial applications.

Who Benefits

Startups and MSMEs operating in mining, mineral processing, metallurgy, and recycling sectors seeking applied research funding, technical mentorship, and incubation support to develop commercially viable and sustainable solutions for India's mineral resource value chain.