Ranchi: State-owned coal mining giant (), is set to venture into the mining of critical minerals, including lithium, to bolster the country’s energy security plans. In a move reflecting ‘s growing focus on green energy, CIL is seeking to acquire a block from the government for lithium exploration, with plans to commence mining upon successful confirmation of lithium deposits.New Delhi Stock Exchange
“We will take one block from the and do exploration and once lithium is proved then we can go for mining,” said B Veera Reddy, ‘s Director (Technical), who also holds the additional charge of CMD at Central Coalfields Ltd. This statement came amidst growing global interest in lithium, known for its essential role in the production of electric vehicles and various renewable technologies.
He emphasized the strategic importance of lithium in the country’s energy security plans and its role as a gamechanger in achieving green energy goals.
Lithium, often referred to as a ‘cosmic’ mineral, is integral to achieving zero carbon green energy goals in the coming yearsMumbai Investment. Its applications extend beyond electric vehicles to medical technology, the electronics industry, mobile phones, and renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines.
The move is seen as a significant step in tapping the potential for critical mineral exploration in India, which Reddy believes has not been fully explored. In addition to domestic efforts, CIL is also aiming to explore critical minerals like lithium globally. “We are going to set up an office in Australia and we are in touch with the ministry of mines,” Reddy said, adding that the company has already identified some blocks in Australia, Chile, and Argentina.
Coal India, accounting for over 80 percent of India’s domestic coal output, is leveraging its mining expertise to diversify into critical minerals. “We have expertise in coal mining and we can divert all our resources for mining of critical minerals,” Reddy explained, expressing confidence in CIL’s capability to successfully mine lithium.
Last year, Minister launched the auction of 20 critical minerals, including two lithium blocks valued at Rs 45,000 crore, located in Jammu & Kashmir and Chhattisgarh.
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