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12 September 2026

India's efforts to secure lithium supplies

This topic addresses India's critical mineral security strategy, involving specific government interventions, international resource diplomacy, and circular economy initiatives like e-waste recycling, which are highly relevant to GS3 and GS2 syllabus themes.

1 min read Day 2 of 2 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • India is actively pursuing the acquisition of lithium blocks in Australia, Chile, and Argentina to address limited domestic reserves.
  • Engagement strategies include both government-to-government (G2G) negotiations and facilitation of private sector participation in overseas exploration and mining.
  • The Ministry of Mines is encouraging Indian private companies to secure overseas resources for supply back to India.
  • E-waste recycling is identified as a strategic secondary source, with a potential to meet 25-30% of India's critical mineral requirements.
  • A ₹1,500-crore government incentive package for e-waste recycling has seen 125 registrations, with 58 entities cleared for participation.
  • The e-waste recycling projects are projected to recover approximately 96 kilotonne of critical minerals annually.
  • The Ministry of Mines is coordinating with NITI Aayog to determine the allocation of incentives for eligible e-waste recycling entities.

Part of a longer story

This is day 2 of 2 in India's overseas critical mineral acquisition strategy, which has been running since 10 September 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the strategic importance of securing critical mineral supply chains for India's transition to a green economy. How can a combination of overseas acquisition and domestic e-waste recycling mitigate supply risks? 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The global race for critical minerals like lithium is reshaping international trade relations and industrial policy. Analyze India's multi-pronged approach to securing these resources and the challenges involved in balancing overseas dependence with domestic circular economy initiatives. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. With reference to India's strategy for critical minerals, consider the following statements: 1. India is currently negotiating for lithium blocks with Australia, Chile, and Argentina. 2. E-waste recycling is estimated to potentially meet up to 30% of India's critical mineral requirements. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-09-12/india-s-efforts-to-secure-lithium-supplies