State-owned NLC India has announced plans to achieve an annual mining capacity of one million tonnes of critical minerals by the fiscal year 2029-30. The company intends to participate in upcoming auctions to secure these resources, which are essential for various industries, including semiconductor manufacturing and renewable energy projects such as solar panels, wind turbines, and advanced batteries.

Leveraging its extensive mining experience since 1967, NLC India aims to utilize its core competencies to establish a significant presence in the critical minerals sector. The company has also indicated plans to explore international opportunities once it gains expertise in domestic critical mineral mining.

This initiative aligns with the Indian government’s Critical Minerals Mission, proposed in the Union Budget 2024-25, which focuses on domestic production, recycling, and overseas acquisition of critical mineral assets. The mission seeks to secure the country’s supply chain by ensuring the availability of these vital resources from both domestic and international sources.

In addition to its critical minerals strategy, NLC India plans to expand its renewable energy capacity from the current 1,431 MW to 10,110 MW by 2030. The company is also prioritizing policies and regulatory changes that promote market liquidity and competitive pricing, further supporting the transition to a sustainable energy mix.