India Eyes Critical Mineral Blocks in Africa and Latin America

India is negotiating with African and Latin American countries to secure critical mineral blocks as demand surges for clean energy technologies. The Indian government has also auctioned a lithium block in Chhattisgarh, hoping to boost domestic production. However, some auctions have been cancelled due to insufficient bids.

India is actively engaging in talks with nations across Africa and Latin America to secure critical mineral blocks needed for the rapidly growing clean energy sector, disclosed Veena Kumari Dermal, joint secretary at the Ministry of Mines, on Tuesday.

Critical minerals such as lithium are indispensable for modern clean energy technologies, including wind turbines, electricity networks, and electric vehicles. The demand for these minerals is accelerating as clean energy transitions gain momentum globally. ''We are having extensive discussions with numerous resource-rich countries in Africa and Latin America to obtain blocks on a government-to-government basis or with priority,'' Dermal stated at the India Energy Storage Week (IESW) 2024, organized by the India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA).

Domestically, the Indian government has successfully auctioned a lithium block in Chhattisgarh and has high hopes for its exploration and production. Maiki South Mining Pvt Ltd recently secured the nation's first lithium block in Chhattisgarh during a sale. Despite this success, the government has faced challenges, including the cancellation of some auctions due to lackluster responses. In June, 21 blocks were put up for sale, but 13 auctions were canceled due to insufficient bids, prompting re-notifications for some blocks in subsequent rounds.

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