₹1,500 Crore Critical Mineral Recycling Scheme Attracts Strong Industry Interest as Mines Ministry Reviews Progress – EQ
In Short : India’s ₹1,500 crore critical mineral recycling scheme has received strong interest from industry players, prompting the Ministry of Mines to undertake a detailed progress review. The scheme aims to strengthen domestic recycling capacity for key minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements, reducing import dependence and supporting the clean-energy transition. With rising demand from EVs, batteries, and renewable technologies, the initiative is expected to boost circular economy efforts, attract investments, and accelerate India’s mineral security strategy.
In Detail : The ₹1,500 crore critical mineral recycling scheme has quickly emerged as a major draw for companies across the battery, electronics, and clean-energy sectors. Its focus on recovering valuable minerals from end-of-life products aligns with global trends toward circular manufacturing and resource efficiency.
The Mines Ministry has launched a comprehensive review to assess current progress and the level of industry participation. Early feedback suggests significant enthusiasm, with multiple firms exploring partnerships and investment opportunities under the scheme.
India’s growing dependence on imported critical minerals has heightened the urgency for domestic solutions. By developing advanced recycling infrastructure, the scheme aims to reduce vulnerabilities linked to supply chain disruptions and geopolitical risks.
The initiative is also timely, given the rapid rise in electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and renewable energy systems, all of which rely heavily on minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earths. Recycling can provide a sustainable supplementary source of these materials.
Companies participating in the scheme are expected to introduce modern recycling technologies capable of extracting high-purity minerals with minimal environmental impact. This supports both industrial growth and India’s broader sustainability goals.
The scheme additionally encourages innovation, research, and skill development in mineral recovery, promoting a robust ecosystem for domestic critical mineral processing. It also creates opportunities for startups and technology developers.
Overall, the strong initial response reflects industry recognition of the strategic importance of critical mineral recycling. As the Mines Ministry continues to review implementation, the scheme is poised to strengthen India’s mineral security, support clean-energy expansion, and accelerate the country’s transition toward a circular economy.
