New Delhi: Coal India Limited (CIL) is ramping up its efforts to acquire essential minerals such as lithium, both domestically and internationally, according to recent media reports. CIL Chairman P.M. Prasad announced on August 21 that the company will continue to engage in the auction of mineral blocks, reflecting a strategic shift in its operations.
Lithium and other critical minerals are vital for manufacturing renewable energy technologies, including wind turbines and electric vehicle batteries. As the demand for these technologies grows, CIL is keen to secure sources of lithium and cobalt to reduce India’s dependence on imported minerals.
During the company’s 50th Annual General Meeting, Prasad highlighted CIL’s active pursuit of key mineral assets. He stated that CIL would maintain its participation in the Ministry of Mines’ electronic auctions for crucial mineral blocks.
Notably, CIL has already made significant strides in the domestic critical minerals sector by becoming the preferred bidder for the Khattali Chotti graphite block in Madhya Pradesh’s Alirajpur region. This marks the first time the company has ventured into mining for minerals beyond coal, a milestone achieved during the tranche-II forward auction held on July 9.
Prasad underscored CIL’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in coal production to prevent potential shortages in the country. As India’s largest coal producer, responsible for nearly 80 percent of the nation’s coal output, CIL remains committed to enhancing the production and supply of high-quality coal, ensuring equitable power prices for citizens.