Securing India’s Critical Mineral Future: A Policy Blueprint for Resilience and Growth
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February 2026 -
Policy Brief | February 2026 -
15 min read
Contributors
Yash Khandelwal
CAIG, NFPRC
Shristi Choudhary
CAIG, NFPRC
Mani Bhushan Jha
Technical Adviser
Rashtram School of Public Leadership
Academic Partner
Executive Summary
This policy brief examines India's critical minerals ecosystem in the context of clean energy, electric mobility, electronics, defence, aerospace and advanced manufacturing. It highlights the need to build domestic capacity across exploration, mining, processing, recycling and downstream manufacturing.
Key Developments
- India has launched a scheme to promote domestic manufacturing of rare earth permanent magnets.
- The National Critical Minerals Mission is positioned as a framework for building a resilient value chain.
- The brief highlights import dependence, limited refining capacity and outdated exploration systems.
- India's approach combines domestic exploration, auctions, international partnerships and recycling.
Key Takeaways
- Critical minerals are central to India's clean-energy transition and technology ambitions.
- India must build processing, recycling and advanced material capabilities.
- International partnerships should complement domestic value addition.
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Access the complete policy brief covering India's critical minerals strategy, domestic value-chain development, global partnerships, processing capabilities and policy recommendations for long-term resource security.
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