Centre earmarks ₹2,814 crore for lithium and nickel processing scheme
Summary
- The Union Government has allocated ₹2,814 crore for a dedicated lithium and nickel processing scheme.
- Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy announced the initiative to strengthen domestic capabilities in critical minerals.
- The scheme aims to boost indigenous manufacturing of battery-grade materials and curtail dependence on imports.
- It forms part of the broader strategy to develop a complete electric‑vehicle (EV) value chain in India.
Key Facts
- · Allocation: ₹2,814 crore
- · Minerals covered: lithium and nickel
- · Announcing minister: G. Kishan Reddy (Coal & Mines)
- · Objective: enhance domestic processing capacity
- · Goal: reduce import reliance for battery materials
Why it matters
Lithium and nickel are essential for lithium‑ion batteries, a cornerstone of India's electric‑vehicle ambition and renewable energy storage. By funding processing units, the Government seeks to create a self‑reliant battery ecosystem, lower import bills, and position India as a competitive player in the global clean‑tech market.
#Lithium#Nickel#Battery#EV#Import substitution#Industrial policy