Mines Ministry organizes Critical Minerals Summit

Ministry of Mines today organized a summit to foster collaboration, sharing knowledge and driving innovation in the field of critical mineral beneficiation and processing in New Delhi.

Addressing the inaugural session of the two-day summit, Secretary of Ministry of Mines VL Kantha Rao pointed out that India’s rapid economic growth and ambition for clean energy is the need of the hour. 

He emphasized the importance of exploration of critical minerals in the country.

VL Kantha Rao also mentioned that the government initiated the auction of 20 blocks of critical and strategic minerals in November 2023, followed by another tranche of 18 blocks in February 2024. He added that more such auctions are expected in the future.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was exchanged between the Ministry of Mines and Shakti sustainable energy foundation along with Council on Energy, Environment and Water and Indian Institute of Sustainable Development during the session.

This deal aims to provide knowledge support in critical minerals which are crucial for the nation’s economic development, national security and low-carbon transition. 

Exhibition pavilions displaying minerals excavated from earth and ocean were also set up at this strategic summit.