Coal India Ventures into Critical Minerals Market to Boost Self-Reliance

Coal India Ltd (CIL) is actively pursuing the acquisition of critical minerals, including lithium, both domestically and abroad. The company aims to reduce import dependence and participated successfully in the domestic auction of graphite blocks. CIL's initiative marks its first non-coal venture, emphasizing a commitment to energy self-reliance.

Coal India on Wednesday announced its active pursuit of critical minerals, including lithium, in both domestic and international markets, underscoring its ongoing participation in auctions for these vital resources.

Critical minerals, such as lithium, are essential for clean energy technologies, from wind turbines to electric vehicle batteries, reflecting their high demand, particularly for battery production.

'With an objective to reduce the import dependence of critical minerals like lithium and cobalt, CIL is actively pursuing acquisition of these mineral assets in India and abroad,' said Coal India Ltd (CIL) Chairman P M Prasad at their 50th Annual General Meeting.

Prasad announced CIL's successful bid for the Khattali Chotti graphite block in Madhya Pradesh, marking the company's inaugural non-coal mining venture, achieved under the tranche-II forward auction conducted by the Mines Ministry on July 9.

Reaffirming its primary mission, Prasad highlighted CIL's commitment to ensuring a steady supply of quality coal, underpinning the nation’s energy self-reliance by fulfilling approximately 80% of India's coal production.