India plans strategy for recovering critical minerals from waste

A recent Ficci-Deloitte report emphasizes India's urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to recover critical minerals from processing waste, which are essential for clean energy technologies and the defense sector. The report highlights challenges such as limited exploration and processing difficulties, suggesting that mining waste could be a valuable resource for minerals like nickel and cobalt. This aligns with India's National Mineral Policy's goal of zero-waste mining, promoting both environmental responsibility and resource efficiency. The Union Budget 2025 has reinforced this focus by introducing reforms in the mining sector and reducing customs duties on critical minerals, aiming to enhance domestic production and recycling efforts. As India targets net-zero emissions by 2070, the development of a sustainable critical mineral recovery ecosystem becomes increasingly vital. Overall, these initiatives reflect a strategic move towards securing India's resource future amid rising global demand for critical minerals.