India’s Strategic Pursuit of Critical Mineral Assets in Global Markets

India is actively seeking critical mineral assets in Congo, Zambia, Tanzania, and Australia, with initiatives led by Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao. A new partnership with Zambia has introduced a 9,000-square-kilometer area for cobalt and copper exploration, while the National Critical Mineral Mission aims to secure self-reliance in critical minerals. Plans to auction lithium exploration blocks are also underway, further supporting India’s green energy goals.

On February 27, 2025, the Government of India announced its ongoing efforts to secure critical mineral assets through exploration initiatives in countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Tanzania, and Australia. Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao stated that collaboration with the Australian government and KABIL is integral, as well as initiatives involving public sector units like Coal India, NMDC, and ONGC Videsh Ltd to identify mining opportunities in Australia.

Critical minerals, including copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are vital for the advancement of clean energy technologies, encompassing applications in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and battery production. Secretary Rao highlighted that a new partnership with the Zambian government has resulted in the allocation of a 9,000-square-kilometer area for the exploration of cobalt and copper, with an expectation to secure mining rights within the following two to three years.

Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy emphasized the high demand for lithium and mentioned that prospective lithium blocks have been identified in Jammu and Kashmir and Chhattisgarh. He indicated that a specialized team from the Geological Survey of India would be engaged in further exploration, with clarity on these initiatives anticipated by late April or May, leading to subsequent auctions.

The Government of India recently sanctioned the ₹16,300-crore National Critical Mineral Mission, envisioning a total expenditure of ₹34,300 crore over seven years. This mission aims to enhance self-reliance and expedite the transition towards green energy, while public sector entities are expected to invest ₹1818,000 crore in promoting exploration both domestically and internationally.

As the global demand for critical minerals surges amid clean energy transitions, this initiative seeks to reduce reliance on imports and foster independence in mineral supply chains. Major objectives include boosting exploration efforts, minimizing import dependence, acquiring overseas mineral blocks, and developing efficient processing technologies.

In conclusion, India is proactively pursuing critical mineral assets through exploration initiatives in various countries, collaborating with both public and private sectors to enhance its resource base. The National Critical Mineral Mission aims to achieve self-reliance in critical minerals, supporting India’s transition to green energy. Future initiatives include the identification and auction of lithium blocks and significant investment towards substantial exploration efforts.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com