NavPrakriti announced plans to invest over ₹100 crore in a greenfield critical minerals refining facility in Odisha. This strategic move aims to strengthen India’s domestic recycling capabilities while advancing resource recovery from end-of-life batteries.
Facility to Support Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling
The proposed facility is expected to become operational by FY 2028–29. Once commissioned, it will process up to 5,000 metric tons of end-of-life lithium-ion batteries annually. As demand for electric vehicles and energy storage systems continues to rise, such infrastructure will play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable material supply.
Alignment with National Critical Mineral Mission
NavPrakriti has been considered eligible under the National Critical Mineral Mission. This enables the company to extract key materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Consequently, the project aligns with India’s broader push to reduce import dependence and build resilient, self-reliant supply chains for critical minerals.
Driving Circular Economy and Resource Security
The Odisha facility will focus on recovering high-purity materials from used batteries. By doing so, it will directly support the development of a circular economy in India. Moreover, retaining valuable minerals within the country enhances resource security while contributing to long-term industrial sustainability.
Expansion Beyond West Bengal Operations
NavPrakriti has already established its first recycling unit in Serampore, West Bengal, with an annual capacity of 12,000 tonnes, scalable to 24,000 tonnes. Building on this foundation, the Odisha plant will serve as the company’s second facility, with a dedicated focus on mineral extraction and refining.
Strengthening Industry Partnerships
At the same time, the company is actively expanding its industry collaborations. It aims to partner with over 150 battery manufacturers and original equipment makers over the next three years. In line with this strategy, a recent partnership with NASH Energy focuses on closed-loop recycling, including end-of-life battery management and production scrap recovery.
Focus on R&D and Process Innovation
In addition, NavPrakriti is investing in research and development through collaborations with academic and industry institutions. These efforts are designed to enhance chemical recovery efficiency and extend battery life cycles through refurbishment technologies. As a result, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of innovation in battery recycling.
Compliance with EPR Regulations
The initiative also aligns with India’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. This regulatory mechanism mandates responsible disposal and recycling of products at the end of their lifecycle. NavPrakriti has confirmed that compliance with these norms is being integrated into its operational model from the outset.
Supporting India’s Clean Energy Transition
As India accelerates its transition toward clean energy, the importance of efficient recycling and mineral recovery continues to grow. As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, investments like NavPrakriti’s Odisha facility will play a vital role in enhancing resource efficiency, strengthening domestic supply chains, and supporting the country’s sustainable energy future.
