National Critical Mineral Mission Launched with Rs 16,300 Crore Outlay to Boost Domestic Production

Mission Overview and Budget

The Union Cabinet has approved the National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM) with a substantial financial commitment of Rs 16,300 crore. This comprehensive initiative aims to strengthen India’s position in the critical minerals sector by addressing every aspect of the value chain, from exploration and mining to processing and recycling of end-of-life products. The mission represents a significant step toward reducing the country’s dependence on mineral imports and establishing a robust domestic mineral industry.

Mineral Mission Key Objectives and Strategy

The mission encompasses several strategic objectives designed to build a self-reliant critical minerals sector. It will prioritize exploration activities both within India’s territorial boundaries and in offshore areas. A streamlined regulatory framework will be implemented, featuring a fast-track approval system for mining projects related to critical minerals. The initiative also includes financial incentives to encourage exploration activities and promote the recovery of critical minerals from mining waste and tailings.

Mineral Mission State Benefits and Cooperation

During the post-Cabinet meeting briefing, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that state governments will receive mineral development benefits, including royalties. This approach aims to ensure that mineral-rich states become active participants in the mission while benefiting from the development of their mineral resources. The cooperation between central and state governments is crucial for the mission’s success and sustainable mining activities.

Critical Minerals Focus

The mission specifically targets minerals essential for manufacturing defense equipment and key technologies, including:

• Lithium
• Cobalt
• Copper
• Nickel
• Rare earth elements

These minerals are crucial for India’s technological advancement and strategic industries, making their domestic production a national priority.

Auction Progress and Industry Participation

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy highlighted significant progress in mineral block auctions, with 48 critical mineral blocks already offered and 24 successfully allocated. The government has launched a fifth tranche of 15 critical mineral blocks, receiving strong industry participation. This successful auction process demonstrates the private sector’s interest and commitment to developing India’s critical mineral resources.

Offshore Mining Initiatives

A notable aspect of the mission is its focus on offshore mining opportunities. India has conducted its first offshore mineral auction in 75 years, marking a historic step in expanding the country’s mineral exploration capabilities. This initiative is expected to open new frontiers for mineral discovery and reduce import dependence significantly.

Public-Private Partnership

The mission emphasizes collaboration between public and private sectors, encouraging both Indian public sector undertakings (PSUs) and private companies to:

• Acquire critical mineral assets abroad
• Develop domestic mining capabilities
• Participate in mineral exploration and processing
• Establish recovery facilities for end-of-life products

International Trade and Strategic Stockpile

To ensure long-term resource security, the mission includes provisions for:

• Building a national stockpile of critical minerals
• Fostering increased trade with mineral-rich countries
• Developing international partnerships for mineral acquisition
• Creating a stable supply chain for critical minerals

Import Policy and Economic Impact

The government has already taken steps to facilitate the import of critical minerals by reducing import duties to zero. This measure, combined with domestic production initiatives, aims to create a balanced approach to meeting India’s critical mineral needs while building domestic capabilities.

Future Outlook

The National Critical Mineral Mission represents a comprehensive approach to securing India’s critical mineral supply chain. By combining regulatory reforms, financial incentives, and strategic partnerships, the mission aims to transform India’s critical minerals sector. The success of this initiative will be crucial for India’s industrial growth, technological advancement, and strategic independence in key sectors.

The mission’s implementation over the coming years will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and international partners, as it has the potential to significantly alter the global critical minerals landscape while strengthening India’s position in this strategic sector.