India's Critical Minerals Summit Concludes, Sets Course for Strategic Collaboration, Policy Insights

The 'Critical Minerals Summit: Enhancing Beneficiation and Processing Capabilities' has concluded successfully in New Delhi. 

Organized by the Ministry of Mines in conjunction with the Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation (Shakti), Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), and Indian Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD), the summit marked significant progress in India's journey towards securing its critical minerals supply chain.

The final day of the summit saw engaging panel discussions on policy incentives and the advantages of investing in India, showcasing a dynamic dialogue among industry stakeholders. Invest India presented on the 'Critical Mineral Processing opportunities in India', shedding light on both fiscal and non-fiscal incentives available within the country. 

Furthermore, leading mining states such as Odisha and Andhra Pradesh shared insights into the incentives they provide, highlighting the nation's growth trajectory and state-level interventions to bolster infrastructure conducive to the industry.

A cluster-based approach to promoting synergies in mineral extraction, refining, and end-use, particularly in low-carbon technologies, took center stage during the discussions. The importance of regulatory certainty, financing frameworks, and adherence to ESG (environmental, social, and governance) standards were underscored as crucial factors in attracting investors. Panelists also highlighted the facilitation services offered by organizations like Invest India and the Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha (IPICOL), aimed at facilitating the establishment of processing and beneficiation capabilities within India.

Dr. Veena Kumari Dermal, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, delivered the closing remarks, encapsulating the summit's key takeaways and outlining future directions. Dr. Dermal emphasized both domestic and international efforts to secure the critical mineral supply chain, enhance skill development within India, and focus on critical minerals recycling. Additionally, she referenced India's available processing technologies for these minerals and alluded to amendments in offshore mining regulations.

The summit's objective was to equip government and industry stakeholders with the knowledge, connections, and tools necessary to accelerate the domestic production of Critical Minerals, thus supporting India's economic growth and sustainability objectives.