India Plans Strategic Reserve of Critical Minerals to Safeguard Defence Manufacturing

India : India is considering establishing a strategic reserve of critical minerals and rare earth elements to ensure uninterrupted supplies for defence manufacturing, according to a senior Ministry of Defence official. This move comes amid rising global tensions and export restrictions on essential materials.

Rajesh Kumar Singh, a top defence official, stated that the reserve would be used to "tide over immediate requirements" during emergencies, ensuring that defence production is not hampered by supply chain disruptions. The plan is part of India's broader strategy to enhance self-reliance in defence manufacturing and reduce dependency on external sources for critical materials.

The proposed reserve would focus on materials such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements, which are vital for producing advanced defence equipment, including missiles, aircraft, and electronic systems. These materials are currently in high demand globally, leading to supply constraints and price volatility.

India's move aligns with global trends where countries are accelerating efforts to secure their domestic supply chains for critical materials. For instance, the United States has established the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) to promote resilient and secure supply chains for critical minerals. India's participation in the MSP underscores its commitment to diversifying sources and reducing reliance on a single country for essential materials.

The Indian government has also initiated the National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM), which aims to uncover new reserves of critical minerals within the country. The mission encourages both public and private sector enterprises to invest in exploration and development of these resources.

While the exact details of the proposed reserve are still being finalized, the plan reflects India's proactive approach to securing its defence manufacturing capabilities in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

As the situation develops, further announcements are expected regarding the establishment and management of the strategic reserve.