In a major breakthrough for India, the country has discovered its first significant lithium reserve. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has confirmed the presence of 5.9 million tonnes of lithium in the Reasi area of Jammu and Kashmir.
Lithium, a light metal known for its use in controlling bipolar disorder and its crucial role in the batteries of electric vehicles (EVs), has gained immense significance in recent years due to the global push towards EVs by governments.
As a result, India has been working towards increasing its supply of the vital mineral, especially for its goals in the electric vehicle sector. Previously, the mines ministry had announced plans to obtain minerals, including lithium, from Australia and Argentina to bolster the country’s mineral supply chain for new technologies.
Presently, India imports most of its minerals, including lithium, from countries like Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile, which hold 50% of the world’s deposits. The discovery of these lithium reserves will prove to be a major boon for India as it aims to increase its EV penetration in the coming years.
Mines Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj spoke at a recent Central Geological Programming board meeting, emphasizing the need for critical minerals worldwide. This discovery of lithium reserves in India is a step in the right direction to achieve self-sufficiency in the supply of vital minerals.
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