The Indian government has acquired 9,000 sq km of land in Zambia for copper and cobalt exploration and is also engaging with other African nations for critical minerals. The exploration process is expected to take two to three years, with ambitions to secure mining rights afterward. These efforts reflect India’s strategy to enhance its resource acquisition amid global demands for minerals essential to electric vehicle and clean energy technologies.
The Indian government has successfully acquired 9,000 square kilometers of greenfield land in Zambia for the exploration of copper and cobalt. This initiative is a government-to-government effort, confirmed by V L Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Mines. Additionally, the Ministry is collaborating with officials in other African nations such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Mozambique, and Rwanda to explore further mineral assets that are vital for the electric vehicle (EV) and clean energy sectors.
The selected land is located in Zambia’s Northwestern Province, an area believed to have significant prospects for cobalt and copper. t is notable that this land is approximately six times larger than Delhi. Following exploration, which is expected to take two to three years, the Ministry aims to secure mining rights. This information was shared by Mr. Rao during a media briefing.
Zambia’s copper reserves have attracted other international investments as well, with Canadian First Quantum Minerals and China’s CNMC being major operators in the region. This strategy marks India’s expansion into Africa, building on previous investments in South America and Australia, particularly with lithium projects in Argentina led by Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL).
In addition to its ventures in Africa, KABIL is collaborating with the Critical Mineral Office of the Australian government to explore lithium and cobalt deposits. Back in India, Minister G Kishan Reddy announced a forthcoming exploration of lithium in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that the situation is under close government scrutiny with plans to auction the Reasi lithium block soon, although previous attempts have been unsuccessful due to limited investor interest.
In summary, the Indian government’s acquisition of land in Zambia for mineral exploration indicates a strategic push for critical mineral assets instrumental in emerging technologies. By collaborating with governmental bodies across Africa and making similar inroads in Australia and South America, India is positioning itself as a key player in the global mining sector. The anticipation of mining rights following exploration reinforces India’s commitment to securing essential resources for its domestic industries.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
