US and India Deepen Critical Minerals Cooperation
The United States and India have taken another major step in strengthening their critical minerals partnership with the visit of Dr. Tom Lograsso, Director of the Critical Materials Innovation Hub, to Mumbai and Pune from February 24 to 28. His visit focused on deepening research collaborations and advancing the Transforming Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology (TRUST) initiative, which was launched following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Washington visit on February 13, 2025.
This initiative focuses on securing the supply of critical minerals, including lithium, cobalt, and REEs, which are essential for India’s clean energy transition and technological self-reliance.
Key Objectives of the US-India Partnership
Developing Robust Supply Chains – Reducing dependency on a single country for sourcing critical minerals.
Enhancing R&D Collaboration – Strengthening ties between Indian and US research institutions to improve mineral processing and refining.
Promoting Sustainable Mining – Advancing eco-friendly methods for extracting and processing minerals.
Strengthening Academic & Industrial Partnerships – Encouraging knowledge exchange between universities and industries.
Boosting Lithium and Rare Earth Processing in India – Enhancing local refining capacities for EV batteries and renewable energy storage.
Why This Partnership Matters for India
India’s rapid economic growth and clean energy ambitions require a steady supply of critical minerals. The US-India collaboration is essential for:
Supporting the Electric Vehicle (EV) Revolution – Securing lithium for battery manufacturing.
Advancing Renewable Energy Storage – Ensuring sustainable development of solar and wind power.
Strengthening Semiconductor and Electronics Sectors – Reducing reliance on global supply chain disruptions.
Reducing Dependence on China – Diversifying mineral sourcing to enhance geopolitical resilience.
Implications of This Cooperation
Encouraging Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) – Creating opportunities for US firms to invest in India’s critical minerals sector.
Enhancing Energy Security – Ensuring uninterrupted access to key minerals for sustainable development.
Fostering Innovation – Driving research and technological advancements in mineral processing.
Job Creation and Economic Growth – Developing India’s mining and refining industries to boost employment opportunities.
Future Roadmap: What’s Next?
Joint Exploration of Lithium and REEs – US and Indian companies to assess and extract lithium deposits.
Technology Transfers & Knowledge Sharing – Adopting cutting-edge US technology to improve mineral processing in India.
Expanding Bilateral Trade Agreements – Strengthening trade relations to ensure smooth mineral supply.
Sustainability Initiatives – Implementing environmentally friendly mining and refining techniques.
With the US and India committed to strengthening this strategic partnership, the future of critical minerals cooperation looks promising, setting the stage for long-term economic and technological advancements.
