National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM), 2025

Why in News?

In his Independence Day 2025 speech, PM Modi announced opening the nuclear energy sector to private players and a tenfold increase in nuclear capacity by 2047, alongside boosting self-reliance in energy and critical minerals through the National Critical Minerals Mission.

Description:

• Launch Year: 2025(Ministry of Mines)
• Outlay: ₹34,300 crore
• Covered Minerals: Lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, rare earth elements.
• Key Reform: 2023 MMDR Act amendment → auction of 24 strategic mineral blocks.
• GSI Exploration (2025–26): 227 projects.
• Strategic Component: Creation of mineral stockpile.

Objectives of NCMM:

1. Enhance Domestic Exploration – Focus on onshore & offshore mineral surveys.
2. Reduce Import Dependence – India is import-reliant for lithium, cobalt, nickel, REEs.
3. Develop Processing & Recycling – Mineral processing parks, recycling tech, sustainable extraction.
4. Overseas Mineral Acquisitions – Encourage PSUs & private companies to secure assets abroad.
5. Policy & Regulatory Support – Faster mining approvals + financial incentives.

Why Critical Minerals Are Important?

• Clean Energy Transition:
  • EV batteries → Lithium, cobalt, nickel
  • Solar panels, wind turbines → Copper, rare earths
• High-Tech & Defence: Smartphones, medical devices, defense equipment.
• Strategic Security: Secure supply chains → reduce vulnerability to global shocks.

Implementation Measures:

• Fast-track Mining Approvals → to speed up projects.
• Strategic Stockpile → safeguard supply chains.
• Policy Reform (2023):
  • Amendment to Mines & Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act, 1957.
  • Allowed auction of 24 strategic mineral blocks.
• Geological Survey of India (GSI):
  • Past 3 years → 368 exploration projects.
  • 227 projects planned in 2025–26.
• Custom Duty Waivers (FY25 Budget): To promote domestic processing.

Significance:

• Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat in clean tech.
• Reduces supply chain vulnerabilities.
• Boosts domestic manufacturing of EVs, solar panels, wind turbines, electronics.
• Attracts private & foreign investment.

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