Critical minerals such as lithium, copper, gold, diamond, rare earth elements, and others will be explored through drone surveys closer to the ground, with improved resolution.
National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) has partnered with Marut Drones to integrate drone technology into India’s mineral exploration sector. This collaboration aims to employ custom-designed Octacopter drones, Octaquad Coaxial X8, equipped with advanced sensors, including Magnetometer, Hyperspectral, and Lidar in the mining sector. These technologies are introduced for the first time in India through this initiative, aiming to enhance precision, efficiency, and sustainability in mining operations.
Marut Drones has developed a specialised Mineral Exploration Drone for NMDC, featuring a unique coaxial design to ensure stability and precise manoeuvrability, critical for effective mineral exploration. The drone has been specifically tailored for NMDC’s requirements, with all components, including motors and propeller systems, made in India.
This signifies a major shift towards modernised and technologically advanced methods of mineral prospecting. This approach is expected to be particularly beneficial in the search for critical minerals such as lithium, copper, gold, diamond, rare earth elements, and others. The technology allows drones to conduct surveys closer to the ground, significantly improving the resolution of data collection and thereby enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of mineral exploration processes.
This is poised to transform traditional prospecting methods, especially in greenfield deposits and stimulate mineral discoveries across the country. Marut Drones’ dedication to using Made in India components highlights the potential of local technology in promoting sustainable mining practices. Founded in 2019 by three IIT graduates, Marut Drones has quickly emerged as a significant figure in India’s drone technology landscape.
