The Government of India has secured a 9,000 sq. km copper and cobalt block in Zambia to support clean energy and EV battery industries. Zambia, rich in minerals, is a key player in global copper production. Rising demand due to technological advancements and projected shortages by 2035 highlight the importance of this acquisition.
The Government of India has acquired a significant 9,000 sq. km block in Zambia dedicated to copper and cobalt exploration. This initiative, led by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), represents a strategic effort to secure essential minerals vital for India’s clean energy and electric vehicle (EV) battery sectors.
Zambia is a landlocked nation in Southern Africa, bordered by Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia. The country boasts key geographical features, including the Zambezi River, Kafue River, and Luangwa River, and is known for its rich deposits of copper, cobalt, nickel, and uranium.
India’s newly acquired copper exploration block is situated in the Northwestern Province of Zambia, reinforcing the country’s position as the seventh largest copper producer globally, while Chile holds the title for the largest producer. Rising demand for copper is driven by the growth of electric vehicle batteries, clean energy technologies, and advancements across infrastructure and electronics, suggesting a projected supply shortage by 2035.
India has seen an 8% decline in copper production since 2018-19, with Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL) as the sole government-owned producer. Significant copper mines in India include the Malanjkhand in Madhya Pradesh, the Khetri in Rajasthan, and the Singhbhum Belt in Jharkhand, marking key regions of copper production in the country.
In summary, India’s acquisition of a copper and cobalt exploration block in Zambia underscores a strategic move to secure essential minerals amidst rising global demand. Zambia’s rich mineral deposits and geographical advantages play a crucial role in this development. Concurrently, India’s copper production faces challenges, necessitating a focus on international partnerships to sustain its industry, especially as demand for copper surges.
Original Source: www.insightsonindia.com
