The Indian government, represented by Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao, is actively exploring critical mineral resources in countries like Congo, Zambia, and Australia. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to secure essential minerals for clean energy technologies. A ₹16,300-crore National Critical Mineral Mission has been launched to reduce import dependence and foster local exploration.
India is actively pursuing critical mineral resources in several countries, including Congo, Zambia, Tanzania, and Australia, as announced by V.L. Kantha Rao, the Mines Secretary. During a recent press briefing, Mr. Rao highlighted collaboration with the Australian government and KABIL, as well as missions in various countries, to secure mining and exploration rights for Indian enterprises.
Critical minerals, including copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are essential for advancing clean energy technologies. These minerals support the production of electric vehicles, wind energy, and battery manufacturing, marking their significance in the global market.
In particular, India is focusing on opportunities in Zambia, where the government has allocated 9,000 square kilometers for exploring cobalt and copper deposits. Rao mentioned that the exploration process would take two to three years, with hopes of obtaining mining rights afterward.
Moreover, the Geological Survey of India has identified lithium blocks in Jammu and Kashmir and Chhattisgarh, responding to the increasing demand for these valuable resources. The government plans to form a specialized GSI team to enhance exploration efforts, with intentions to auction these blocks by late April or May.
The missions are supported by a recently approved ₹16,300-crore National Critical Mineral Mission, with a broader budget of ₹34,300 crore over seven years. This initiative aims to bolster India’s exploration of critical minerals both domestically and internationally, reducing reliance on imports and facilitating the transition to green energy.
Public sector entities are projected to contribute significantly to this mission, with an overarching goal to enhance mineral exploration, diminish import reliance, and recycle critical minerals effectively. With the global shift towards clean energy gaining momentum, the demand for these minerals continues to rise, thereby fostering India’s ambitions towards self-sufficiency in this domain.
India is making significant strides in securing critical mineral assets internationally, especially in regions rich in essential minerals for clean energy production. With long-term exploration and acquisition plans in place, the government aims to enhance self-reliance and support the transition to green technologies. The National Critical Mineral Mission reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing rising mineral demand, reducing imports, and ensuring sustainable resource management.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
