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India in talks to acquire lithium blocks abroad
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India in talks to acquire lithium blocks abroad
India is in talks to acquire lithium blocks in Australia and Chile, part of its critical minerals strategy.
Why it matters: GS-3 core
What you need to know
2 min read
India is negotiating to acquire lithium blocks in Australia and Chile, and is also eyeing further lithium assets in Argentina, as part of its strategy to secure critical mineral supplies for electric vehicle batteries and clean energy technology.
Lithium is classified as a critical mineral by the Ministry of Mines.
India currently depends heavily on imports for such minerals, making overseas acquisition a key part of its critical minerals mission.
Sources: Topper IAS editorial (PIB / The Hindu / Indian Express)
Key facts
Remember these
- lithium
- critical minerals
- Ministry of Mines
- electric vehicles
Prelims · Mains
How the exam will ask it
Prelims
- lithium, critical minerals, Ministry of Mines, electric vehicles
Mains
Use as an example in GS-3 answers (GS Paper 3 - Economy, Resources).
Quick recall
Answer before you reveal
With reference to lithium, consider the following statements:
- It is classified as a critical mineral by India.
- India is currently self-sufficient in lithium production.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: A — Lithium is classified as a critical mineral, but India remains import-dependent, which is why it is seeking lithium blocks abroad.
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