NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to set up a pilot project in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu for the extraction of rare earth elements (REEs) from fly ash — a by-product of thermal power generation.
Turning Waste into Strategic Resources
With technical support from BARC, the initiative seeks to transform fly ash management into an opportunity for recovering valuable critical minerals. REEs are indispensable in renewable energy systems, medical devices, electronics, defence technologies, and advanced research. By tapping this resource domestically, the project aims to reduce India’s import dependence and strengthen strategic mineral security. It also seeks to position the country as a competitive player in the global critical minerals market.
Commitment to Sustainability and Self-Reliance
Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, Chairman and Managing Director of NLCIL, said, “Our partnership with BARC is a major step towards sustainable resource use, promoting the circular economy, and advancing India’s self-reliance in critical minerals.”
Addressing Global Supply Challenges
As reported by projectstoday.com, global REE supply chains are heavily concentrated, making them vulnerable to disruptions. This indigenous extraction effort offers India a sustainable, homegrown pathway to secure critical materials. These are essential for the nation’s clean energy transition, high-tech manufacturing, and national security objectives.
