The National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM) is a strategic initiative launched by the Indian government. Its primary goal is to secure a sustainable supply of critical minerals essential for national security, economic growth, and achieving a net-zero carbon target by 2070. This mission focuses on enhancing domestic production, acquiring overseas mineral assets, fostering technological development, and building global coalitions.
Critical minerals like lithium, graphite, cobalt, and nickel play a vital role in various sectors. They are essential for:
These minerals are indispensable for ensuring India's energy security and self-reliance.
Several key reforms have been implemented to enhance the mineral sector:
The NCMM features a financial outlay of ₹16,300 crore aimed at securing a long-term sustainable supply of critical minerals. This investment promotes innovation, develops cutting-edge technologies, and strengthens India’s supply chains through enhanced research and infrastructure.
The NCMM encourages bilateral and multilateral partnerships with resource-rich nations. It emphasizes fair and equitable acquisition of mineral assets, utilizing a whole-of-government approach that includes various ministries, research institutes, and private stakeholders.
Specific critical minerals of focus under the NCMM include:
The mission aligns with India's environmental objectives by promoting a steady supply of minerals required for green energy solutions. This includes components for solar panels, wind turbines, and battery systems, all essential for achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
Engagement with the private sector is encouraged through support for research and development (R&D), entrepreneurship, and risk-taking in mineral exploration. Indian enterprises are incentivized to explore critical mineral assets both locally and internationally.
During the B20 Summit in August 2023, Prime Minister Modi stressed the global responsibility for sustainable management of critical minerals. He highlighted India's leadership role in forming a broad coalition to prevent a “new model of colonialism” in resource acquisition.
The NCMM aims to:
In conclusion, true leadership lies in converting challenges into opportunities, paving the way for a self-reliant nation through resource security.
Q1. What is the National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM)?
Answer: The NCMM is an initiative by the Indian government aimed at ensuring a sustainable supply of critical minerals necessary for national security and economic growth, with a target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Q2. Why are critical minerals important for India?
Answer: Critical minerals are crucial for energy storage, green technologies, defense, and various sectors. Their availability is essential for India's energy security and self-reliance.
Q3. What reforms have been implemented in the mineral sector?
Answer: Key reforms include the MMDR Act (2015) for transparency, NMET for exploration, DMF for welfare in mining regions, and recent auctions for critical minerals.
Q4. How does the mission promote international cooperation?
Answer: The NCMM fosters partnerships with resource-rich countries, focusing on equitable mineral asset acquisition through a collaborative governmental approach.
Q5. What role does private sector engagement play in the mission?
Answer: The mission encourages private sector participation in R&D, fostering entrepreneurship and incentivizing exploration of critical minerals both domestically and internationally.
Question 1: What is the main objective of the National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM)?
A) To enhance mineral imports
B) To ensure sustainable supply of critical minerals
C) To regulate mineral prices
D) To eliminate mining completely
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which mineral is essential for batteries used in electric vehicles?
A) Cobalt
B) Lithium
C) Nickel
D) Graphite
Correct Answer: B
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