NLCIL and IREL Partners to Explore Critical Minerals and Rare Earths

NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has entered into a strategic partnership with IREL (India) Limited to jointly explore and develop critical minerals and rare earth element (REE) assets across India and globally. The collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Focusing on Mining, Sourcing, and Refining

The MoU sets the stage for cooperation across the entire value chain—from mining and excavation to refining and sourcing of critical raw materials. These minerals are essential for advancing India’s capabilities in renewable energy, electric mobility, defence, and electronics manufacturing.

Aligned with India’s National Strategy on Critical Minerals

The partnership aligns with the government’s strategic push to secure critical mineral supply chains. The government has encouraged public sector undertakings to actively pursue acquisition and development of these essential resources to reduce import dependency and ensure long-term energy and technological security.

Expanding Resource Access Domestically and Globally

Through the alliance, NLCIL and IREL plan to jointly identify high-potential opportunities for asset development. They aim to pursue these opportunities both within India and through international ventures. The collaboration also aims to create a sustainable and self-reliant framework for securing critical mineral resources.

Supporting India’s Vision

The initiative reflects a shared commitment to support India’s broader ambitions of becoming a global leader in manufacturing and clean energy. As reported by projectstoday.com, NLCIL and IREL aim to build a resilient and future-ready strategic mineral ecosystem. They plan to achieve this by leveraging each other’s strengths.