The Government of India for the period FY 2024-25 to FY 2030-31 has launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) to ensure a reliable supply of critical minerals and build resilient domestic value chains. The mission covers the entire critical mineral ecosystem, including exploration, mining, beneficiation, processing, recycling, and recovery from end-of-life products. The government has dedicated ₹16,300 crore for the program implementation while public sector undertakings will bring in an estimated ₹18,000 crore throughout the seven years.
Strengthening Exploration, Recycling, Research & Strategic Reserves
Under this initiative, India has set out on a target of completing 1,200 domestic exploration projects by 2030-31. The main objective is to enable domestic production of at least 15 critical minerals such as lithium, graphite, potash, and rare earth elements (REEs). In addition, the NCMM also seeks to facilitate the acquisition of 50 overseas mining assets by Indian companies followed by a proposal of a fast-track regulatory approval mechanism for mining projects.
To promote resource circularity, the mission introduces an Incentive Scheme for mineral recycling with a budget allocation of ₹1,500 crore. The scheme aims to recover 400 kilotonnes of recycled material and develop an annual recycling capacity of 270 kilotonnes, resulting in 40 kilotonnes of annual critical mineral production. Materials like e-waste, retired lithium-ion batteries, and end-of-life vehicle parts including catalytic converters qualify for recycling programs
The NCMM also proposes the establishment of a National Critical Minerals Stockpile to safeguard the country against global supply chain disruptions. In the area of research and innovation, it is vying for self-sufficiency in processing at least five critical minerals by 2031, followed by the goal to generate 1,000 patents across the critical mineral value chain.
To ensure success, the mission establishes an Empowered Committee on Critical Minerals to coordinate and monitor various initiatives. Along with the development of a traceability system that will give out information regarding both the composition and sourcing of critical minerals used in products.
Key Takeaway: The National Critical Mineral Mission is a comprehensive strategy to consolidate India’s critical mineral security. Its main focus is on exploration, overseas asset acquisition, recycling, stockpiling, research, and governance reforms. The aim is to reduce import dependence while enhancing supply chain resilience, so as to support the country’s clean energy and industrial transition.
MCQ Questions
MCQ Question 1:
The National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) has been launched for which period?
A. FY 2023-24 to FY 2028-29
B. FY 2024-25 to FY 2030-31
C. FY 2025-26 to FY 2032-33
D. FY 2024-25 to FY 2029-30
MCQ Question 2:
Which of the following is NOT a major objective of the National Critical Mineral Mission?
A. Development of critical mineral recycling capacity
B. Acquisition of overseas mining assets
C. Establishment of a National Critical Minerals Stockpile
D. Privatization of all mineral exploration activities