India is exploring critical mineral mining in Zambia, Congo, and Australia to secure resources like lithium and reduce import reliance. An agreement in Zambia allows exploration of cobalt and copper, while India develops local lithium processing. Efforts are also underway to explore reserves in Jammu and Kashmir alongside other critical minerals.
India is actively exploring opportunities to mine critical minerals such as lithium in Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Australia. V.L. Kantha Rao, the Secretary of Mines, indicated that companies including Coal India, NMDC, and ONGC Videsh are participating in these ventures. This strategic move aims to reduce India’s dependency on imports for essential minerals that are vital for energy transition technologies.
In Zambia, an agreement has been reached granting India access to 9,000 square kilometers for the exploration of cobalt and copper, with further exploration efforts also focused on Congo and Tanzania. India is currently developing its lithium processing technology, a field mainly dominated by China.
Moreover, India’s Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy announced that the nation will explore lithium reserves in Jammu and Kashmir, with expected clarity anticipated by May 2025. The government recently identified its first lithium deposits in the region, estimated at 5.9 million metric tons, although there have been challenges in acquiring bids for mining rights.
In an effort to bolster its energy transition initiatives and meet the rising demands from industries, India has classified over 20 minerals, including lithium, as ‘critical.’ In January 2025, the Indian government approved a budget of ₹63 billion (approximately $1.88 billion) to support the development of the critical minerals sector.
India is making significant strides in securing critical minerals to support its energy transition and lessen its import dependence. The exploration initiatives in Zambia, Congo, and Australia, along with the domestic efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, underscore India’s commitment to enhancing its resource capabilities. Financial investments and strategic exploration are key to meeting the country’s growing demands in energy and infrastructure sectors.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
