Synopsis

India is embarking on a transformative journey with plans for four specialized critical mineral processing parks in strategic states, emphasizing lithium and nickel—essential components for battery production. Spearheaded by state governments, this initiative aims to harness central technical support and is in line with the National Critical Mineral Mission's vision for self-reliance, propelling the country toward a sustainable green energy future.

New Delhi: The government plans to set up four dedicated critical minerals processing parks across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha to fast-track value addition for key battery materials, a top official said on Thursday.

The parks will focus on creating element-specific ecosystems, with individual facilities designed to specialise in critical minerals such as lithium and nickel, two raw materials being prioritised for the battery sector, while downstream processing for the remaining critical minerals will follow, Mines Secretary Keshav Chandra said.

"We are fast-tracking lithium and nickel because these are crucial elements for the battery sector. Batteries are currently the most important component globally for future growth; so, we will fast-track both of these," he said, briefing reporters.

"Batteries are currently the most important component globally for future growth. So, we are fast-tracking both of these.....we will introduce measures for these two very soon, and we are identifying designated parks for them," Chandra added.

Under the plan, each park will host an integrated value chain, from processing to downstream industries, for a designated element so that full value addition can happen in one location, the official said.

State governments will lead planning and implementation, with the Centre providing technical support, Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy said. ​

"The planning itself will be by the state government. We will extend full technical support," he said, adding that the Centre has already written to all state governments and chief ministers seeking cooperation.

The government had earlier approved the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM), envisaging a total outlay of Rs 34,300 crore spread over seven years, with an aim to achieve self-reliance and accelerate India's journey towards green energy transition.

The government has earmarked Rs 16,300 crore for NCMM. Public sector enterprises are expected to contribute Rs 18,000 crore to the mission, which aims at promoting exploration of critical minerals within the country and offshore locations.

Critical minerals such as copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt and rare earth are essential raw materials required to fuel the growth of clean energy technologies and their expanding uses across wind turbines, electricity networks, electric vehicles and battery manufacturing.