In Short : In an effort to lessen its reliance on China for vital clean energy minerals, India has identified fresh rare earth element (REE) resources, particularly in the Papum Pare district of Arunachal Pradesh. In light of growing worries about the global supply chain, this discovery is one of several prospective hotspots found throughout the nation.
Increasing the Exploration and Discovery of Rare Earths
With new hotspots like Papum Pare displaying enhanced neodymium content—essential for electric vehicles and cutting-edge electronics—the Ministry of Mines has affirmed ongoing efforts to map rare earth deposits. These initiatives are a part of the National Critical Minerals Mission, which aims to strengthen domestic supply chains through more than 1,200 exploration projects between 2030 and 31.
Significant in-situ REE oxide estimates—more than 7.2 million tonnes—have been reported by agencies such as the Atomic Minerals Directorate and the Geological Survey of India across hard rock formations in Rajasthan and Gujarat as well as coastal sands in states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Gujarat. More findings in locations like Barmar (Rajasthan), Purulia (West Bengal), and Singrauli (Madhya Pradesh) are extending India’s
Impact and Significance of Clean Energy
These events signal a turning point in India’s energy transformation. The nation may fortify supply chains essential to technologies like electric vehicles, wind turbines, and solar infrastructure by drawing on its own REE reserves. In light of China’s near-monopoly in rare earths, this strategy change minimizes exposure to foreign supply shocks and supports the objectives of clean energy self-reliance.
