Key Insights | Critical Mineral Supply Chains: Challenges for India

The global push towards a net-zero future by 2050 hinges on a successful transition to clean energy technologies. This transition requires a significant increase in the production and deployment of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, wind turbines, electric vehicles (EVs), and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). All of these technologies rely heavily on a range of raw materials known as critical minerals.

India has set ambitious targets for installing renewable energy capacity and EV adoption, but currently faces significant import dependency for many requisite critical minerals. Ensuring a resilient and sustainable supply of critical minerals is a complex challenge with significant geopolitical and economic implications.

This paper aims to:

• Analyse the structure and dynamics of global critical mineral supply chains.
• Identify the key bottlenecks and challenges in these supply chains, particularly concerning extraction, processing, and manufacturing.
• Evaluate the specific challenges faced by India in accessing critical minerals.
• Recommend policy interventions and strategic options for India to secure its critical mineral needs for a successful clean energy transition.