India Moves Towards Critical Minerals Pact With Russia To Reduce Dependence On China

Cloud TV Desk: India is moving closer to signing a major critical minerals agreement with Russia as New Delhi seeks to reduce its dependence on China for key resources such as lithium and rare earth minerals. According to a report, the two countries are currently engaged in advanced discussions over a preliminary agreement (India Russia critical minerals pact) covering mineral exploration, processing and technological cooperation.

Advertisement

The proposed deal is being viewed as strategically important for India’s long-term energy and technology goals. China currently dominates global supply chains related to lithium, rare earth minerals and processing technologies, all of which are essential for electric vehicles, semiconductors, renewable energy systems and advanced electronics.

According to reports, India and Russia are discussing cooperation in lithium and rare earth exploration projects, refining technology and corporate investment partnerships. Sources claim that India’s Ministry of Mines has already shared a draft proposal with Russian authorities, and the agreement could reportedly be signed within the next two months.

Advertisement

Experts believe the deal could play a crucial role in India’s clean energy transition plans. India aims to rapidly expand the use of electric vehicles by 2030, which will significantly increase demand for lithium-based batteries. Rare earth minerals are also considered critical for defence technology, electronics manufacturing and high-tech industries.

Over the past few years, India has also signed agreements related to critical minerals with countries such as Argentina, Australia, Japan, Brazil and Germany. Discussions are reportedly ongoing with Canada, Peru, Chile and the Netherlands as well. However, India’s overseas mineral acquisition efforts have so far achieved limited success.

Notably, India recently withdrew from a Russian-backed lithium project in Mali due to security concerns in the region. However, reports suggest New Delhi may reconsider participation in Rosatom-backed projects if conditions improve in the future.

Analysts say global competition over critical minerals is rapidly becoming a major geopolitical battleground. In that context, the proposed India-Russia agreement is being seen not only as an economic partnership but also as a significant strategic move for both countries.