India is set to launch the National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM) to enhance domestic production, reduce import dependence and encourage offshore mining auctions.
Union Minister G Kishan Reddy announced the initiative at the 3rd National Mining Ministers’ Conference in Konark, attended by key government officials and industry leaders, reported the Economic Times.
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Reddy stated that the mission is awaiting Cabinet approval following its announcement by the Union finance minister in her budget speech. He noted that the import duty on critical minerals has been eliminated.
Critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, copper, nickel and rare earth elements are essential for manufacturing defence equipment and key technologies.
Highlighting India’s position on the global platform for critical minerals, Reddy urged collaboration between public and private sectors.
He announced the auction of 48 critical mineral blocks, with 24 successfully allotted.
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By GlobalData“The fifth tranche offering of 15 critical mineral blocks was launched today, and industries have participated with full encouragement. This momentum should continue,” he said.
Reddy also emphasised the potential of offshore mining in India, marking the country’s first offshore mineral auction in 75 years.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the state’s contribution to India’s industrial and economic growth, stating, “The conference serves as a vital platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration and policy deliberation to ensure sustainable and environmentally responsible mining practices.”
Both Reddy and Majhi launched the Mining Tenement System (MTS) at the conference, a digital platform aimed at streamlining processes and enhancing transparency in mineral resource management.
They also awarded sanction letters to 11 start-ups selected for funding of Rs159.7m ($1.84m) under the S&T-PRISM Component of the Science and Technology Programme of the Ministry of Mines.
These start-ups will focus on indigenous technologies including high-grade silica production, lithium battery materials and AI-enhanced mining operations.
VL Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, highlighted significant achievements, stating that 75% of mining block auctions have occurred in the past four years, with Odisha generating Rs1.33trn in mineral revenue over a decade.
