Union Minister of Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy underscored the critical importance of mineral security, stating it forms the core convergence of economic security, energy security, and national security for India. Speaking at the BT Infrastructure Summit 2026, Minister Reddy articulated the government's unwavering commitment to achieving Aatmanirbharata (self-reliance) in minerals, deeming it a non-negotiable national priority.
Securing Critical Minerals for a Developed India
Reddy emphasized that India’s aspirations to become a global semiconductor manufacturing hub are directly tied to securing a steady supply of critical minerals. He highlighted the necessity of resources like lithium, cobalt, and graphite for battery production, and copper, nickel, and rare earth elements for clean energy initiatives. Recent geopolitical developments, he noted, have starkly illustrated the inseparable link between economic and national security, further reinforcing the need for resilient supply chains.
Driving Exploration and Investment
To realize the vision of a developed India, the Minister called for accelerated exploration efforts, faster operationalization of mines, and significantly greater private investment in the mineral sector. He stressed the adoption of advanced technologies and the construction of robust mineral value chains. The government has already initiated reforms, transforming the coal sector from a restrictive domain into a competitive and investment-friendly industry.
Commercial coal mining has been opened to private participation, enhancing efficiency, competition, and production. Furthermore, 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route has been permitted, cultivating a more efficient and attractive ecosystem for investors.
Technological Advancements and Value Addition
The Ministry of Coal and Mines is actively leveraging cutting-edge technologies to boost efficiency and safety. This includes the deployment of Artificial Intelligence, drone-based exploration, satellite mapping, and advanced geospatial technologies for improved exploration, mine planning, and operational safety. Concurrently, substantial investments are being made in large-scale coal gasification projects. These initiatives aim to convert coal into synthetic gas, methanol, and various chemical feedstocks, thereby creating higher value addition and supporting cleaner industrial growth.