Coal India Ltd (CIL) is considering venturing into the extraction of essential minerals, including lithium, as part of its strategic plans. CIL is exploring the possibility of obtaining a government-allocated block for exploration purposes. Once the presence of lithium reserves is substantiated, the public sector undertaking (PSU) intends to initiate mining activities.
Recognised as a pivotal mineral India’s energy security initiatives, lithium is hailed as a transformative element crucial for achieving net-zero objectives in the forthcoming years. CIL, a major contributor to domestic coal production with over 80 percent share, is diversifying its focus to address the increasing demand for lithium.
In addition to its application in the production of electric vehicles, lithium finds utility in diverse sectors such as medical technology, the electronics industry, mobile phones, solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable technologies. The move aligns with the broader context of the country’s commitment to sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions.
In 2023, the ministry of coal and mines initiated the auction of twenty critical minerals valued at ₹45,000 crore. Two of the minerals earmarked for auction are lithium blocks, with one located in Jammu & Kashmir and the other in Chhattisgarh. As reported by PSUWATCH, the strategic endeavour by CIL reflects the evolving landscape of India’s resource exploration and its commitment to embracing cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions.
