Centre approves national critical mineral mission for self-reliance

In an important decision related to future technological growth of the country, the Union Cabinet today okayed the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) to expand exploration and use of 24 specified minerals.

These minerals are processed into material and rare metals, and are needed in semi-conductors, electronics, space sector wind turbines and military equipment. At present, most of these materials and metals are imported and supply chains are strategically controlled, under geo-political pressures.

Union Minister for Information and Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw briefed the media about the decision saying the mission will be steered by the Cabinet Secretary and has an allocation of Rs 16,300 crore to be spent over six years.

A sum Rs 18,000 crore is the expected investment to be made by Public Sector Undertakings for NCMM, added Vaishnaw. The Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi okayed the decision.

Answering questions Vaishnaw said the allocation of money will go to develop technology and acquiring blocks abroad is a part of the target. Some of these 24 minerals are available for mining in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Goa, and Gujarat and will be exploited.

“The NCMM is aimed at reinforcing India’s critical mineral value chain across all stages,” the Centre said.