India is exploring critical minerals in Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia to secure raw materials like lithium essential for energy transition technologies. The Zambian government has allocated land for cobalt and copper exploration, while India also aims to assess lithium reserves in Jammu and Kashmir. A significant investment has been made to boost the critical minerals sector amid rising domestic and industrial demands.
India is actively pursuing the mining of critical minerals in Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia, as stated by Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao. This initiative is part of India’s strategy to secure essential raw materials, particularly lithium, which is crucial for the transition to sustainable energy technologies. Companies such as Coal India, NMDC, and ONGC Videsh are already engaged in exploration activities within Australia.
In a recent development, the Zambian government has allocated 9,000 square kilometers for India’s exploration of cobalt and copper. Additionally, India is extending its search for critical minerals to regions such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania. Meanwhile, India’s Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy announced plans to investigate lithium reserves within Jammu and Kashmir, with further clarity expected by May 2025.
India’s exploration efforts gained momentum following the discovery of its first lithium deposits in Jammu and Kashmir in February 2023, with an estimated reserve of 5.9 million metric tons. However, the government has struggled to attract bidders for the mining rights in the region. Furthermore, by 2023, India had classified over 20 minerals, including lithium, as vital for its energy transition and industrial demands.
In January 2025, the Indian government allocated approximately Rs 63 billion ($1.88 billion) to further develop the critical minerals sector. This marks a significant investment aimed at reducing dependence on imports and enhancing domestic resource capabilities for sustainable technology solutions.
In summary, India is strategically exploring critical minerals in key regions to bolster its resource security and reduce import dependencies. The significance of these minerals, especially lithium, in the energy transition is paramount. With substantial government investment and ongoing exploration activities, India aims to solidify its position in critical mineral supply chains, enhancing its industrial and technological capacities.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
