India is set to initiate its Critical Mineral Mission in 2025, a landmark project designed to secure vital minerals for the nation’s green energy transition and the expansion of its electric vehicle industry. This ambitious initiative will bring together multiple ministries, industries, research institutions, and global think tanks to ensure a consistent and sustainable supply of essential minerals. As global demand for resources like lithium and cobalt intensifies, India aims to secure a competitive position by acquiring mineral assets, particularly in Australia, and attracting foreign investment.
The demand for critical minerals is expected to rise sharply, driven by the electric vehicle industry, renewable energy advancements, and the semiconductor sector. As part of its strategy, India has established the joint venture Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL), which is dedicated to acquiring and processing strategic minerals internationally. The government has already auctioned 24 critical mineral blocks and will continue to promote offshore mining through roadshows to attract potential bidders. Additionally, India plans to leverage its vast rare earth deposits, which surpass those of Australia and Canada, for sustainable, high-tech exploration. With companies such as Vedanta Ltd and Hindustan Zinc emphasizing the importance of these minerals in the country’s economic development, India is on track to strengthen its mining capabilities and reduce its reliance on imports, positioning itself as a global leader in the critical minerals sector.
