**NLC India Explores Global Sourcing for Rare Earth Elements**
**Meta Description:** NLC India is seeking overseas sources for rare earth elements and lithium, amid global supply chain challenges due to China’s export restrictions.
**URL Slug:** nlc-india-rare-earth-elements-sourcing
**NLC India Explores Global Sourcing for Rare Earth Elements**
NLC India Ltd, a state-owned enterprise, is actively seeking opportunities to source rare earth elements from international markets. The company’s Chairman and Managing Director, Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, revealed that preliminary discussions have commenced regarding lithium blocks in Mali, West Africa, as well as copper and cobalt mines in the Republic of the Congo. This initiative comes in response to recent export restrictions imposed by China on rare earth elements, which have significantly affected the global supply chain of these critical minerals, essential for various applications including home appliances and electric vehicles.
In an interview, Motupalli emphasized that both the mines and coal ministries have urged NLC India to “aggressively” pursue the exploration and mining of critical mineral blocks and rare earth elements. “We are in contact with the Ministry of Mines and Ministry of Coal, and following their guidance, we have initiated steps to explore some mines abroad. Currently, we are evaluating lithium mines in Mali and copper and cobalt mines in the Republic of the Congo,” he stated.
The CMD noted that the discussions are still in the early stages, with future actions contingent upon the signing of a non-disclosure agreement expected this month. “We will proceed with caution in finalizing these ventures, taking into account the socio-economic conditions and stability of the respective countries,” he added.
NLC India aims to produce one million metric tonnes of critical minerals over the next five years, leveraging both domestic and international sources. The company has previously secured two critical and strategic mineral blocks in Balod district, Chhattisgarh, namely the Semhardih Phosphorite and Limestone Block and the Raipura Phosphorite and Limestone Block, awarded through an auction process. Motupalli expressed optimism about commencing exploration in these blocks soon.
NLC India’s core operations encompass coal and lignite mining, as well as power generation, positioning the company as a key player in the critical minerals sector.
**FAQ**
**What is NLC India’s strategy for sourcing rare earth elements?**
NLC India is exploring international opportunities for rare earth elements and has initiated discussions for lithium, copper, and cobalt mining in countries like Mali and the Republic of the Congo, in response to global supply chain challenges.
