New Delhi: India is stepping up efforts to expand domestic production of critical minerals, including rare earth elements and lithium, to support future industries.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh said the country aims to build strong capabilities in this sector. He noted that demand for rare earth permanent magnets is expected to rise sharply by 2030.
The rare earth lithium exploration push is part of a broader strategy to reduce import dependence and strengthen supply chains.
Rare earth lithium exploration gains momentum
The government has launched a pilot project on neodymium-iron-boron magnets. A samarium-cobalt magnet plant in Visakhapatnam is already operational.
Officials plan to scale up production capacity from 500 tonnes to 5,000 tonnes by 2030. This expansion aims to meet rising domestic demand.
Exploration activities are also underway in Degana in Rajasthan and in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. These regions are expected to contribute to future mineral supply.
Authorities said recent policy changes have opened the sector to private participation. These reforms aim to accelerate exploration and development.
Strategic importance for future industries
Rare earth elements and lithium are essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy and electronics. They also support sectors like defence, aerospace and space technologies.
The government has identified key regions for development, including Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala.
Officials emphasised the need for sustainable mining practices and strict regulation. They also highlighted efforts to curb illegal mining activities.
The rare earth lithium exploration initiative is expected to support India’s clean energy transition and emerging technologies.
