India fast-tracking hunt for critical minerals to power self-reliance, says PM Modi
is accelerating efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in
critical minerals
, with exploration campaigns underway at more than 1,200 locations across the country, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi
said on Friday.
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Addressing the nation on the 79th Independence Day, Modi noted that 'today the whole world has become very cautious about critical minerals' and that people have begun to fully grasp their potential. 'What did not receive much attention till yesterday is on the centre stage today. Self-reliance in critical minerals is very essential for India as well,' he said.
Critical minerals such as
lithium
, cobalt,
rare earth elements
and graphite are vital for a range of applications — from electronic chips and household appliances to electric vehicles and solar panels. Their demand has surged sharply as nations push for
clean energy transitions
and aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
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'Be it the energy sector, industry sector, defence sector or technology sector, critical minerals play a very important role in technology today. And for this reason, we have launched the
National Critical Mission
,' Modi said from the ramparts of the Red Fort. He added that exploration drives at more than 1,200 sites are already underway, 'and we are moving towards becoming self-sufficient in critical minerals as well.'
The Prime Minister linked this push to India's broader goal of
energy independence
, noting the economic burden of relying on imports.
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'If we were not dependent on energy, that wealth would have been used for our youth, it would have helped the poor in my country to fight against poverty. It would have been useful for the welfare of the farmers of my country, it would have been useful in changing the conditions of the villages of my country. But we have to give it to foreign countries. Now we are working towards becoming self-reliant,' he said.
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