India to scale up critical mineral exploration and build strong domestic value chains to reduce import dependence and meet strategic needs: Dr. Jitendra Singh

• Critical minerals (lithium, cobalt, REE, graphite, nickel, etc.) are indispensable for clean-energy, EV batteries, semiconductors, defence and space — India is import-dependent for most.
• Topic links Ministry of Mines policy (MMDR Amendment 2023, NCMM 2025) with Ministry of Science & Technology (CSIR–IMMT, DAE) push reviewed at the NMET Governing Body meeting (26 Mar 2026) chaired by Dr Jitendra Singh.
• High-yield UPSC area straddling GS-III (economy, S&T, security) and current affairs.