Bhubaneswar: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has been honoured for developing an innovative satellite-based technology that promises to revolutionise bauxite prospecting and exploration in Odisha.
The award was presented to Dr. Ashim Sattar, Assistant Professor, and his research team at the 4th Odisha Mining and Infrastructure International Conference held in Bhubaneswar on January 13.
Odisha holds an estimated 2.3 billion tonnes of bauxite reserves, accounting for over 50% of India’s total resources. Bauxite, the primary ore for aluminum production, is essential for industries such as aerospace, construction, packaging, and electric vehicles. However, much of these reserves are located in the challenging terrains of the Eastern Ghats, where traditional ground-based exploration methods are time-consuming, expensive, and environmentally disruptive.
The IIT Bhubaneswar team, led by Dr. Sattar from the School of Earth, Ocean and Climate Sciences, utilised advanced hyperspectral satellite remote sensing to detect potential bauxite-bearing zones. Hyperspectral imaging captures detailed spectral signatures — unique electromagnetic response patterns of earth materials — enabling non-invasive identification of bauxite indicators.
The research integrated satellite data with extensive field surveys, geochemical and petrographic analyses, and laboratory spectral studies. This multi-disciplinary approach successfully mapped prospective bauxite depositional sites at a regional scale across the Koraput and Rayagada districts. The study, published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Geochemical Exploration, marks the first large-area remote sensing-led assessment of bauxite zones in Odisha.
“This integrated method provides a robust first-level framework for mapping prospective bauxite deposits. It offers a cost-effective, rapid, and eco-friendly alternative to conventional techniques, supporting sustainable mineral exploration,” said Dr Sattar, highlighting the significance of the work.
The findings are expected to support the mining industry and policymakers in identifying potential Bauxite exploration zones, optimising resources, and minimising environmental impacts. It also addresses growing global demand for aluminum, with Credit Suisse indicating potential supply shortfalls by 2030, strengthening India’s efforts to secure domestic raw materials for industrial growth and reducing reliance on imports, besides laying the the foundation for next-generation mineral mapping and sustainable resource management in Odisha.
The award ceremony was attended by Minister for Industries and Skill Development Sampad Swain.
