Towards digital transition: An assessment of human resource factors for adoption of Mining 4.0 technologies in Indian coal mining sector

Ensuring a consistent supply of mineral resources, while minimising industrial accidents and environmental impacts, necessitates the continuous integration of innovative technologies within the mining sector. These technologies play a crucial role in enhancing the long-term resilience of the mineral resource industry. Mining 4.0 (M4.0) has emerged as a strategic response to the rapid wave of digital transformation influencing both mining operations and associated infrastructure systems. However, the adoption of M4.0 in developing economies such as India still remains challenging. Its successful implementation not only depends on technological readiness but also on the availability of a skilled workforce capable of effectively utilising these advanced systems. Mining companies must therefore focus on developing human resource (HR) competencies that enable employees to adapt to digital tools and manage organisational challenges arising from technological transitions. Despite this need, many mining organisations lack a clear understanding of which HR skills are most critical and how they should be systematically prioritised. Addressing this gap requires a structured evaluation of essential HR capabilities relevant to M4.0, particularly within the context of developing nations. This study responds to this requirement by identifying and prioritising key HR skills in Indian coal mining companies using the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory approach. The originality of this research lies in its focus on HR skill prioritisation, an area that has received limited attention in existing literature on the Indian mining sector. The study provides actionable insights to support strategic workforce planning and facilitate the effective implementation of M4.0 technologies.