Prof. B.K. Mishra Advocates Green and Sustainable Resource Utilization at IIT Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: “India stands at a critical juncture in its mineral resource utilization. Rising demand for metals is inevitable, but it is equally important to rethink the environmental implications of extraction,” said Prof. B.K. Mishra, Distinguished Visiting Professor, IIT Bhubaneswar and Former Director, IIT Goa. His address was part of the National Engineers’ Day celebrations at IIT Bhubaneswar, a day dedicated to honoring the contributions of engineers and deliberating on sustainable pathways for the future.

Green and sustainable resource utilization: A new challenge for India

Delivering a lecture on “Toward Green and Sustainable Pathways for Resource Utilization”, Prof. Mishra posed thought-provoking questions on India’s future resource strategy. He questioned whether steel could ever be produced without coal, how the rising demand for non-ferrous metals and rare earths could be met, and what policy measures are essential to build a resilient base of critical minerals.

Circular economy models key to resource efficiency

Prof. Mishra urged a paradigm shift from linear extraction to circular economy practices. He highlighted the importance of recycling and valorizing industrial by-products such as anode slime, phosphogypsum, fly ash, and mine tailings. Stressing on the role of innovation, he encouraged the exploration of secondary sources and the adoption of green technologies that minimize ecological debt.

Balancing industrial growth with environmental responsibility

The professor emphasized that while immediate answers may not always be available, the act of asking the right questions and investing in sustainable solutions will pave the way for a balance between economic development and environmental responsibility. He noted that India must pursue innovations that ensure industrial progress without compromising ecological sustainability.

IIT Bhubaneswar encourages multidisciplinary and entrepreneurial approach

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director of IIT Bhubaneswar, called upon students to embrace a multidisciplinary outlook. “Real-world problems are multidisciplinary in nature, so students must think beyond conventional boundaries,” he said. Prof. Karmalkar also motivated students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset to contribute meaningfully to society’s progress.

Earlier, Prof. Dinakar Pasla, Dean (Sponsored Research & Industrial Consultancy), welcomed the gathering and introduced the chief guest. The event was attended by Deans, the Registrar, senior faculty members, staff, and a large number of students, reflecting the Institute’s commitment to celebrating engineering excellence and sustainable innovation.

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