India is exploring mining opportunities for critical minerals like lithium in Zambia, Congo, Tanzania, and Australia to reduce import reliance. It has identified 20 key minerals for development, including recent findings in Jammu and Kashmir. The government has allocated substantial funds to boost the critical minerals sector, reflecting a strategic push for energy self-sufficiency.
India is actively pursuing opportunities to mine critical minerals, including lithium, in countries such as Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Australia. This initiative aims to diminish the nation’s import dependence for energy transition technologies. The Indian government has identified 20 key minerals and is allocating substantial resources to advance the critical minerals sector, reflecting its commitment to energy self-sufficiency.
As part of this effort, the Zambian authorities have consented to allocate 9,000 square kilometers for India to explore cobalt and copper reserves. This was confirmed by a government official during a recent media conference, highlighting India’s interest in mining in Congo and Tanzania as well.
Furthermore, India’s Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy announced plans to investigate lithium resources in Jammu and Kashmir, expecting to declare the findings by May 2025. The government discovered lithium deposits earlier in 2023, estimating reserves of approximately 5.9 million metric tons, yet has not attracted any bids for mining rights in the state.
The Indian government, earlier this year, designated over 20 essential minerals, including lithium, as critical to its energy transition strategy to support the increasing demands from the industrial and infrastructure sectors. In support of this initiative, New Delhi approved an investment of Rs 16,300 crore (approximately $1.88 billion) to enhance the critical minerals sector.
In summary, India is taking significant measures to explore and develop critical mineral resources both domestically and internationally. By investing in mining projects in Zambia, the Congo, and Australia, as well as enhancing local production capabilities, India aims to secure its energy transition goals. Focused efforts in Jammu and Kashmir further indicate a long-term strategy towards reducing mineral import dependence, crucial for supporting future industrial growth.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
