The National Institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM) is an autonomous research institute under the Ministry of Mines, Government of India. Established in 1988 under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, NIRM has its Head Office in Bengaluru and Registered Office in Kolar Gold Fields, Karnataka. The Institute undertakes field and laboratory investigations, basic and applied research, and provides solutions to complex problems across the spectrum of rock mechanics and rock engineering related to mining and civil engineering activities.
NIRM is dedicated to basic and applied research in rock mechanics. The Institute provides its expertise to central and state government agencies and public sector undertakings in mining, hydroelectric projects, nuclear power projects, the oil and gas sector, and infrastructure projects involving railways, roads, airports and hospitals.
The Institute aspires to become a self-sustaining Centre of Excellence of international standards in rock mechanics, rock engineering and allied fields. It aims to support the mining, construction, petroleum, power and infrastructure sectors, with emphasis on quality, innovation, professional competency and skill development.
