India aims for self-sufficiency in critical minerals, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that India is advancing toward self-reliance in critical minerals, with exploration drives underway at over 1,200 sites across the country.

Speaking from the Red Fort on the 79th Independence Day, Modi highlighted the growing global focus on critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, and graphite — key components in products ranging from electronic chips and home appliances to electric vehicles and solar panels.

“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, noting that these resources play a vital role in sectors including energy, industry, defence, and technology.

The Prime Minister said the demand for these minerals has surged sharply due to the global shift toward clean energy and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “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,” he added.

Modi also underscored the importance of reducing India’s energy import bill.

“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, and 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.