INDIAS MINES MINISTRY
Centre bans export of Li-ion battery waste, scrap to boost domestic recycling and critical mineral recovery
India has imposed an immediate ban on the export of lithium-ion battery black mass to strengthen its local recycling ecosystem. This decision aims to enhance domestic recovery of critical minerals, such as lithium and cobalt, which are vital for technology and energy sectors. The prohibition will ensure that battery waste generated in India is processed locally and improves utilization of recycling capacities.
Centre launches ninth auction tranche for 20 critical mineral blocks, third round of exploration licences
The mines ministry has launched the ninth tranche of auctions for 20 critical and strategic mineral blocks, alongside the third tranche for exploration licence blocks. Of the 100 unique blocks offered in the first eight rounds, 64 have been auctioned. The move aims to strengthen mineral security and attract private exploration investment.
Coal gasification projects may save India Rs 1.5 lakh crore in forex over 5-7 years: Coal Ministry Secretary
Coal gasification projects are expected to provide significant foreign exchange savings for India by substituting imports. The Coal Ministry has initiated financial incentives targeted towards promoting coal gasification. Responsible mining practices are emphasized to encourage sustainable development and investment in the coal sector.
Iran lifts Hormuz transit curbs for ships from India, China, Iraq and Qatar, could ease pressure on India’s oil and gas supply
Iran has announced the lifting of transit restrictions for vessels from India, China, Iraq, and Qatar. This decision aims to enhance regional cooperation and facilitate trade, particularly in medicines from India. Iranian officials have noted that American forces do not intercept these ships, showing Tehran's strategic interests.
Sarbananda Sonowal outlines plan to double coastal & waterway freight share to 12% by 2047
The Indian government is implementing initiatives to double the share of coastal and inland waterway shipping by 2047. The Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme and the Cruise Bharat Mission are set to attract 1 million cruise passengers and create significant employment opportunities. Paradip Port Authority will develop the Puri International Cruise Terminal in collaboration with the Government of Odisha.
SC notices to Centre, Assam on Oil India plea on rejection of drilling proposal at national park
The Supreme Court has requested responses from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas regarding Oil India's proposal. This proposal involves hydrocarbon extraction through Extended Reach Drilling beneath Dibru-Saikhowa National Park. Oil India claims that the drilling will not harm the park's ecosystem while addressing energy needs.
- Go To Page 1
India's industrial growth slows to 6.7% in September from 8% in August
India's Index of Industrial Production for September recorded a growth rate of 6.7%. This figure represents a decline from August's 8%. Key contributors to this growth include the manufacture of motor vehicles and electrical equipment, among others. The manufacture of rubber and plastics also played a significant role in September's performance. These statistics were released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
Trump looks to rein in fuel prices ahead of midterms; waives threat of 100% tariffs on India over Russian oil
US President Donald Trump has waived fresh sanctions and duties on Russian energy exports under a new law, citing national interest and easing concerns over potential tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers, including India. The move comes as India continues to rely on Russian crude and explores long-term LNG supplies, while New Delhi and Moscow seek to expand cooperation across oil, gas, mining and steel.
Amid supply chain issues, India's strategic mining in critical state
India's mining sector remains underdeveloped due to high import dependence and severe execution bottlenecks. Challenges include land acquisition difficulties, uncoordinated state-level regulations, and environmental concerns related to mining activities. The Centre has urged states to improve the operationalisation of mines, with only a fraction currently active. Various stages of clearances have delayed the progress of numerous mining projects in different regions.
Diversification plan: NMDC scouts for mining assets across four continents
NMDC is actively seeking mining assets worldwide, including critical minerals to support various industries. The company aims to earn 20 percent of revenues from minerals other than iron ore. This expansion aligns with government initiatives to secure raw material supplies and decrease import dependency. NMDC's strategy is expected to enhance its role in India's manufacturing sectors. Industries such as automotive, renewable energy, and electronics will benefit from these efforts.
Government names Sunil Kumar ONGC chairman; to succeed Arun Singh in December
Sunil Kumar has been appointed as chairman of ONGC, succeeding Arun Singh, effective December 7. Kumar’s appointment follows recommendations from a selection committee that interviewed various candidates. He enters the role at a time of turmoil in the global energy market and heightened oil and gas prices. Singh’s tenure saw improved profits and strategic partnerships that bolstered ONGC's output and operations.
Speedy project approvals, assured buyers key to India's 100 MT coal gasification target by 2030
India has set a target to gasify 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030 with significant investments. The coal ministry estimates the investment required will be between Rs 2.5 and 3 lakh crore. A streamlined single-window approval process is essential to facilitate this ambitious project. Coal gasification is expected to reduce India's import dependence on methanol and natural gas.
Coal supply to power plants to normalise soon, Indian official says
Coal supply to Indian power plants is being increased, with a record 2.6 million tons delivered daily. The number of plants with critically low coal stocks has risen recently, impacting power generation. As hydropower usage declines due to El Nino effects, coal-fired plants face increased pressure. Gujarat has received additional power allocation to manage rising electricity demand effectively. Authorities have requested factories to limit electricity use to prevent potential shortages.
Government to review 2019 mineral policy amid new sector priorities
The Centre is initiating a review of the National Mineral Policy, 2019, to address current sector demands. A nine-member committee will review the policy to reflect recent developments, especially in critical minerals. The committee is expected to submit recommendations within two months after its formation. Experts emphasize the need for a revised policy to enhance India's mineral potential and investment.
Who is Kim Jong Un’s sister Kim Yo Jong? The most powerful woman in North Korea who is said to have taken over from her brother
Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, reportedly the most powerful woman in North Korea was claimed to have taken over from her brother following his alleged death. North Korean state media has since released photos of Kim attending a public event.
China announces export curbs on key machinery used in India's infrastructure development
Beijing has announced new export controls on essential machinery, which will impact India's infrastructure development. These restrictions will take effect on November 18 and apply to tunnel boring machines and related items. Additionally, the export controls include walking excavators and specific dredger-related items, complicating several Indian projects.
From rocks to riches: India’s unfinished critical minerals story
India's manufacturing industry is significantly affected by its heavy reliance on imported critical minerals like lithium and cobalt. The recent supply disruptions from China have highlighted weaknesses in India's domestic capacity for refining these minerals. Efforts to enhance mineral processing and create integrated production facilities are underway to reduce import dependence.
CISF to roll out historic functional reorganisation from November 1
The Central Industrial Security Force is set to reorganize its administrative structure beginning November 1. This restructuring aims to improve specialized security management across various industries and installations. Key sectors like power, coal, and petroleum will receive enhanced operational oversight and sector-specific expertise. The changes follow consultations with senior officers and aim to strengthen coordination with relevant authorities.
The $50-billion question: Who gets what as India and Canada aim to strike a trade deal?
India and Canada are currently negotiating a free trade agreement designed to enhance bilateral trade significantly. Nearly 300 Canadian business delegates are visiting India to advance these discussions. Both countries aim to increase two-way trade to $50 billion by 2030. Key focus areas include energy, critical minerals, and agriculture, alongside demands for improved market access. The negotiations have resumed after a brief pause, with optimism surrounding the outcome before December.
Blackouts hit Indian factories as coal crunch feeds into economy
Indian industries and households are grappling with power shortages due to reduced coal supplies and extreme weather conditions. The weak monsoon has limited hydropower generation while demand for electricity has surged. Many factories, including small steel mills, are facing lengthy outages, impacting production and increasing costs. Consumers in states like Uttar Pradesh are experiencing significant blackouts, prompting investments in backup systems.
New draft steel policy targets 604 million tonnes capacity by 2047
India has unveiled a new draft national steel policy targeting 604 million tonnes capacity by 2047. The initiative also aims to increase exports to 45 million tonnes in two decades. Measures will focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting technology indigenisation in steel production. Infrastructure development will be emphasized alongside research, safety, and workforce improvements.
Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft Mangrol to be commissioned into Navy on Oct 12
Mangrol is the third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft being commissioned into the Indian Navy. The ship enhances the Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities in coastal areas where larger ships struggle. It is equipped with advanced weapons and sensors to detect submarine threats effectively. Built with over 80 percent indigenous content, it supports India's self-reliance in defense shipbuilding initiatives.
Amitabh Bachchan’s father, poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was Cambridge University scholar, a literary icon. Superstar once said: 'His public presence is greater than mine...'
Amitabh Bachchan’s father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was a celebrated poet who rose to fame with the publication of the poetry book Madhushala in 1935. A Cambridge University scholar, he was a professor at Allahabad University and later translated various works of Shakespeare in Hindi. The iconic 1990 film Agneepath took its name from one of his poems, and the poem played a big role in the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer as well.
South Korea test-flies its first domestically developed hypersonic weapon
On Thursday, South Korea conducted its first flight test of a domestically developed hypersonic weapon. The weapon is designed to travel at least five times the speed of sound, increasing defense capabilities. President Lee Jae Myung attended the test and emphasized strengthening national security. This development follows escalating tensions with North Korea, particularly after recent mine explosions. North Korea has increased its weapons tests and rejected calls for resumed diplomacy.
India, Cote d'Ivoire discuss defence, anti-terrorism, trade and development cooperation
India and Côte d’Ivoire discussed strengthening cooperation in defence and anti-terrorism, including training, capacity building and institutional exchanges, during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit to Abidjan.
India, Cote d'Ivoire discuss cooperation in defence, anti-terrorism
S Jaishankar visited Cote d'Ivoire to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors including defence and anti-terrorism. During his stay, he met with Cote d'Ivoire's Deputy Prime Minister to discuss training and capacity building measures. Jaishankar also engaged with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs to strengthen ties in trade and healthcare. Furthermore, discussions included collaboration in multilateral forums to advance their strategic partnership.
Indian Bureau of Mines invites applications to set up mineral exchange
The Indian Bureau of Mines is inviting applications from companies to set up a mineral exchange. Interested applicants have until November 2 to submit their applications for consideration. This initiative follows the notification of the Mineral Exchange Rules, 2026, to facilitate trading of minerals. The government seeks to identify capable entities to establish a transparent and technology-enabled exchange.
Steel Ministry asks SAIL, NMDC to scout overseas mineral assets for raw material security
The Steel Ministry has instructed state-run steelmakers SAIL and NMDC to explore overseas mineral assets. This effort aims to secure long-term raw material supplies necessary for steel production. Indian steelmakers currently rely heavily on imports for coking coal and limestone, which increases their costs. Diversifying mineral portfolios could also benefit NMDC as it seeks to enhance its revenue streams.
Critical minerals emerge as key India-Canada trade opportunity amid supply chain diversification: Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu
Canada sees an opportunity to support India's supply chain diversification through critical minerals, particularly for the country's growing auto, electric vehicle and battery sectors, Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu said.
Load More
