The Indian government has taken substantial strides toward ensuring self-reliance in the sector of strategic resources with the launch of the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM). Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet approved this ambitious initiative, which includes an investment of ₹16,300 crore from the government and anticipates additional funding of ₹18,000 crore from public sector undertakings (PSUs) and private sectors. This initiative is integral to the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at reducing India's dependency on foreign minerals and bolstering the nation's economy.
Critical minerals are central to a plethora of advanced industries, including high-tech applications, clean energy solutions, and military technologies. Recognizing their significance, the government has initiated multiple measures over the past two years to confront challenges prevalent within this sector. The NCMM seeks to establish a comprehensive framework encompassing all stages of the mineral value chain. This includes exploration, mining, beneficiation, processing, and recovery from end-of-life products.
One of the principal aims of the NCMM is to accelerate mineral exploration on Indian soil and offshore. The mission sets out to create fast-track regulatory approvals for mining projects and offers financial incentives aimed at encouraging investments. By simplifying regulatory hurdles, the government expects to attract investment and bolster domestic production of these pivotal resources.
The government has made it clear: enhancing domestic capabilities alone will not suffice. The NCMM includes efforts to encourage Indian PSUs and private firms to acquire mineral assets abroad, thereby securing strategic resources and strengthening trade ties with resource-rich nations. The establishment of mineral processing parks and the promotion of recycling and sustainable practices are also part of the mission’s expansive framework.
To support advancements and innovation, the Indian government is also proposing the creation of a Centre of Excellence on Critical Minerals. This institution aims to facilitate research and technology development within the sector. Various ministries, PSUs, and research entities will collaborate closely to achieve these objectives, supporting India's drive toward technological self-sufficiency and sustainability.
Recent amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act have empowered the government to expedite exploration and mining initiatives. Since the passing of these amendments, the Ministry of Mines has auctioned 24 blocks for strategic minerals. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has actively engaged with 368 exploration projects over the past three years, with 195 projects currently operational in the fiscal year 2024-25. Plans for 2025-26 foresee the initiation of 227 more projects dedicated to various types of strategic minerals.
Innovation has not been left behind; the Ministry of Mines launched the Science and Technology – Promotion of Research and Innovation in Start-ups and MSMEs (S&T PRISM) program to support new enterprises and bridge the gap between research and market needs. Notably, KABIL — the joint venture of the Ministry of Mines — has secured a deal to acquire 15,703 hectares of land in Argentina for lithium exploration, cementing India’s international mineral resource engagement.
Not resting on its laurels, the Indian government also abolished customs duties on most imports of strategic minerals as part of the Union Budget for 2024-25. This move aims to lower cost barriers and encourage both domestic consumption and processing facilities within the nation, enhancing local industries' capabilities and readiness for the growing demand.
These concerted efforts showcase India’s resolve to build a resilient and self-sufficient supply chain of strategic minerals, which are indispensable for achieving long-term energy goals and advancing high-technology industries. While challenges remain, the planned initiatives under the National Critical Mineral Mission cement India’s commitment to becoming less reliant on external sources and to globally competitive capabilities.
Looking to the future, as the global demand for minerals rises, India is positioning itself as both a leader and participant within the strategic mineral supply web, poised to support its own green technology advancements and significant defense requirements.