India's Global Hunt for Critical Minerals

India is actively seeking opportunities to explore and mine critical mineral assets across Congo, Zambia, Tanzania, and Australia. This initiative aims to fuel the country's transition to clean energy technologies by securing essential raw materials like copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements.

India is expanding its global presence in the mining sector by exploring crucial mineral assets in countries such as Congo, Zambia, Tanzania, and Australia, a government official announced Thursday.

During a press briefing, Mines Secretary V L Kantha Rao emphasized the need for critical minerals—copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earths—to support the growth of clean energy technologies. Public sector units like Coal India, NMDC, and ONGC Videsh Ltd are participating in this strategic overseas exploration.

The initiative is part of India's larger National Critical Mineral Mission, designed to enhance domestic capabilities and reduce dependency on imports. Through this mission, India aims to foster self-reliance and accelerate its green energy transition, aligning with global clean energy trends.