India is exploring critical minerals in Zambia, Congo, and Australia to secure vital resources like lithium, with efforts from companies such as Coal India and NMDC. The Zambian government has allocated 9,000 square kilometers for Indian exploration of cobalt and copper. Meanwhile, domestic efforts include lithium exploration in Jammu and Kashmir where initial deposits have been found. Over 20 minerals have been identified as critical for India’s energy transition.
India is actively pursuing mining opportunities for critical minerals in Zambia, Congo, and Australia, as announced by Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao. This initiative is part of India’s strategy to secure essential raw materials like lithium, crucial for advancing energy transition technologies. Noteworthy companies such as Coal India, NMDC, and ONGC Videsh are already engaged in mineral exploration in Australia.
India’s exploration for critical minerals in various regions is a strategic move to enhance its self-sufficiency in vital materials essential for energy technologies. With significant developments in Zambia, Congo, and domestically in Jammu and Kashmir, India aims to bolster its critical mineral sector and reduce dependence on imports. Investments have also been earmarked to support the growth of this sector, all pointing towards a focused endeavor to meet the growing industrial demand.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com