India is actively positioning itself as a global leader in clean energy and advanced manufacturing through a strategic focus on critical minerals, emphasizing sustainability, technology, and responsible mining practices. At the Indian Mining Summit 2025, Mr. Arun Misra, Chairman of the CII National Committee on Mining and CEO of Hindustan Zinc Ltd., highlighted how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and startups are revolutionizing mineral exploration. These innovations help lower exploration risks while improving success rates. India’s mining sector is gradually shifting its focus from traditional resources like coal and steel to critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earths, which are essential for electric vehicles, solar energy, semiconductors, and electronics. He stressed that environmental safeguards, efficient waste management, water conservation, and community protection are vital for sustainable growth.
Dr. Arvind Virmani, Member of NITI Aayog, emphasized the importance of a self-reliant domestic critical minerals framework. He suggested building strong infrastructure, industrial parks, backward integration, and attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to strengthen the supply chain. Dr. Virmani also pointed out that leveraging free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries like Australia, the European Union, and the United States will help India secure a competitive position in global value chains.
CII National Committee on Mining Co-Chairpersons Mr. Thomas Cherian and Ms. Swati Salgaokar outlined a four-point roadmap to strengthen India’s mineral sector: collaboration between government and industry, global partnerships, innovation-focused R&D, and inclusive community engagement. They emphasized that the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative complements India’s global engagement by enabling the development of domestic champions in mineral processing and refining. Coupled with the National Critical Minerals Mission and ongoing policy reforms, these steps aim to secure India’s critical mineral resources, reduce import reliance, and foster sustainable industrial growth, ensuring the nation’s green and high-tech sectors continue to thrive.
