Dr Ashim Sattar, Assistant Professor at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar, received an award for developing satellite-based technology for bauxite prospecting and exploration in Odisha.
His work, published in the Journal of Geochemical Exploration, was recognised at the 4th Odisha Mining and Infrastructure International Conference 2026. The event was attended by Shri Sampad Swain, Industries and Skill Development Minister, Government of Odisha.
Dr Sattar and his research group successfully identified potential bauxite depositional sites across Koraput and Rayagada districts using advanced hyperspectral satellite remote sensing. Moreover, they combined hyperspectral satellite data, field surveys, geochemical and petrographic assessments, and laboratory spectral studies to create a robust framework for mapping bauxite deposits. This achievement marks the first large-scale remote sensing-based assessment of bauxite zones in Odisha.
Bauxite, the primary ore of aluminium, plays a vital role in industries such as aerospace, construction, and packaging. Furthermore, with global aluminium supply projected to face a shortfall by 2030, ensuring a stable domestic supply has become a strategic priority for India. Odisha, which holds an estimated 2.3 billion tonnes of bauxite reserves—over 50% of India’s total—faces challenges because much of the mineral lies in the difficult terrains of the Eastern Ghats.
By leveraging hyperspectral imaging and spectral signature analysis, the IIT Bhubaneswar team developed a cost-effective, rapid, and eco-friendly approach to detect bauxite-bearing zones. Consequently, their findings are expected to aid the mining industry and policymakers in identifying exploration zones, optimising resources, and minimising environmental impacts.
Ultimately, this initiative lays the foundation for next-generation mineral mapping and sustainable resource management in Odisha. It also reinforces India’s efforts to secure critical raw materials for future industrial growth.
