Towards Energy Independence: Critical Minerals in the Indian Context

TL;DR

This paper discusses India's reliance on imported rare earth elements for green technologies, emphasizing the need for sustainable domestic sources, recycling, and circular economy strategies to achieve energy independence by 2047.

Contribution

It highlights underutilized resources and proposes strategies for India to develop a sustainable, domestic REE supply chain through innovation, recycling, and industry collaboration.

Findings

India's dependence on imports for REEs is a major challenge.

Potential in underutilized resources like e-waste and fly ash.

Hindustan Copper Limited can lead REE recovery efforts.

Abstract

The global impetus for extracting rare earth elements (REEs) is shaping the future of green technologies. From high-efficiency magnets in wind turbines to advanced batteries and solar photovoltaics, REEs are indispensable for a greener world through the energy transition. However, supply chains remain a barrier for the majority of the global population. India is mainly dependent on imports for most REEs. Innovation and recycling efforts in most REEs are still in their early stages. For India, aspiring to Viksit Bharat by 2047, securing sustainable REE access is critical to national energy security and technological independence. This paper explores India's opportunities and challenges in the REE domain, high-lighting underutilized resources such as copper tailings, fly ash, and e-waste. We argue for circular economy pathways that can reduce environmental impacts and strengthen domestic supply. Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), as India's sole vertically integrated copper producer, is uniquely positioned to pioneer co-recovery of REEs, advance research and development partnerships, and build a comprehensive supply chain. By embedding sustainability, ESG principles, and community trust in its strategy, HCL can evolve into a national champion in this domain.