Highlights

• India launching national Critical Mineral Mission in 2025 to secure strategic resources like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
• Mission targets enhancing domestic and international mineral supply chains for green energy, electric vehicles, and semiconductor industries.
• Government seeks to position India as a global hub for clean energy manufacturing through strategic mineral acquisitions and international collaborations.

India is launching a national Critical Mineral Mission in 2025 to secure vital resources like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements essential for green energy, electric vehicles (EVs), and semiconductors. This initiative will unite government ministries, industries, and global partners in a comprehensive effort to enhance domestic and international mineral supply chains. Key strategies include acquiring mineral assets abroad, hosting roadshows to attract global investors, and auctioning offshore and domestic mining blocks. The mission highlights India's ambition to become a global hub for clean energy and high-tech manufacturing while reducing dependency on imports.

This news is according to Manufacturing from the Economic Times (opens in a new tab).

This mission assumes global cooperation and sustainable practices amid increasing competition for these resources. India’s significant rare earth deposits are a promising asset, but challenges such as environmental concerns, geopolitical complexities, and the need for high-tech exploration remain.  This nation, while the fifth biggest world economy, has plenty of regulatory, administrative, and political obstacles at all levels.

Funding and collaboration with firms like Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL) aim to secure long-term mineral supply, positioning India as a leader in the energy transition. Yet, biases favoring domestic industries and the ambitious timeline could impact outcomes, requiring balanced and innovative approaches to ensure success.