Union Minister G Kishan Reddy voiced optimism that India will soon become a global leader in critical minerals. This announcement coincides with the launch of the National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM), aimed at enhancing domestic production, reducing import dependence, and promoting offshore mining.
Speaking during the 3rd National Mining Ministers’ Conference in Konark—attended by dignitaries including Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi—Reddy emphasized, “India will be the global destination for critical minerals.” The CMM is set to receive Union Cabinet approval soon and will introduce the first-ever offshore mineral auctions.
The mission focuses on essential minerals like lithium, cobalt, copper, nickel, and rare earth elements, crucial for manufacturing defense equipment and advanced technology. Reddy urged public-private collaboration and announced an import duty waiver on these critical minerals.
India has launched auctions for 48 critical mineral blocks, with 24 already allotted. An additional 15 blocks received enthusiastic industry participation, and the first offshore mineral auction is set to reduce import dependence further.
Reddy encouraged states to create their Mineral Exploration Trusts, supported by the Centre, to boost exploration activities and utilize royalty funds. He also called for expedited mine closures and the repurposing of abandoned sites for solar energy generation.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the state’s significant contribution to India’s industrial and economic growth through vast mineral resources. He emphasized sustainable and environmentally responsible mining practices and Odisha’s role in the ‘Purvodaya Mission’ aimed at national prosperity and self-reliance.
During the conference, Reddy and Majhi introduced the Mining Tenement System (MTS), a digital platform to improve process efficiency and transparency in mineral resource management. They also awarded funding to 11 startups focusing on indigenous technologies, including high-grade silica production, lithium battery materials, and AI-enhanced mining operations.
States excelling in mineral block auctions received recognition, with Rajasthan leading, followed by Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. A booklet on ‘Best Practices on Mine Closure‘ was also released. Union Mines Secretary VL Kantha Rao highlighted significant sector achievements, noting that 75% of mining block auctions have occurred in the last four years and Odisha has generated Rs 1.33 lakh crore in mineral revenue over the past decade.
India’s critical mineral mission is set to propel the nation towards becoming a self-reliant global powerhouse in the resource sector.
