What Are the Newly Recognised CoEs for R&D in Critical Minerals?
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Synopsis
The Ministry of Mines has recently recognized two additional institutes as Centres of Excellence under the National Critical Mineral Mission, aiming to enhance R&D in critical minerals essential for clean energy and technology. This initiative not only strengthens national capabilities but also fosters collaboration between industry and academia.
Key Takeaways
- The Ministry of Mines has recognized IISc Bangalore and C-MET Hyderabad as new Centres of Excellence.
- The total number of CoEs is now nine.
- These CoEs will focus on R&D in critical minerals.
- The initiative aims to secure supply chains for critical minerals.
- The Critical Mineral Recycling Incentive Scheme has been launched to promote recycling.
New Delhi, Oct 25 (NationPress) The Ministry of Mines has officially acknowledged two additional institutions: the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore and the Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET) in Hyderabad, as Centres of Excellence under the National Critical Mineral Mission, as announced on Saturday.
According to the Ministry of Mines, “The Centres of Excellence (CoEs) will spearhead groundbreaking research and development aimed at enhancing technology readiness to pilot-plant and pre-commercial demonstration levels (TRL 7-8) for critical minerals that support clean energy, mobility transition, electronics, defence, and space sectors.”
This initiative is designed to consolidate core competencies to develop technologies that ensure secure supply chains for critical minerals.
With the addition of these new approvals, the total number of recognised CoEs has now risen to nine, following the initial recognition of seven institutes, as per the Ministry.
“The CoEs will engage in transformative research that aims to bolster and advance the nation’s capabilities in science and technology regarding critical minerals,” the Ministry added.
Each CoE will function as a consortium, utilizing a hub-and-spoke model to enhance R&D in critical minerals and unify the core competencies of each participating entity.
These CoEs must incorporate at least two industry partners and two R&D or academic partners within their networks.
Collectively, the nine recognised CoEs have attracted approximately 90 industry and academic or R&D spokes, as mentioned by the Ministry.
As a part of the National Critical Mineral Mission, the Centre earlier this month initiated the application process for the Rs 1,500 crore Critical Mineral Recycling Incentive Scheme.
This scheme is aimed at boosting the industry’s capacity to recycle critical minerals from e-waste, spent lithium-ion batteries, and other materials, such as catalytic converters from end-of-life vehicles.
Incentives for larger recyclers are set at Rs 50 crore, while smaller recyclers will be eligible for up to Rs 25 crore.
Point of View
The recognition of these two institutes as Centres of Excellence marks a significant step forward in enhancing India's capabilities in critical mineral research. It aligns with our commitment to fostering innovation and securing supply chains, which are essential for our technological and economic growth.
NationPress
26/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the newly recognized Centres of Excellence?
The newly recognized Centres of Excellence are the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore and the Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET) Hyderabad.
What is the purpose of these Centres of Excellence?
These Centres aim to conduct innovative research and development in critical minerals to support clean energy, mobility transition, electronics, defence, and space sectors.
How many Centres of Excellence are there now?
With the recent recognitions, there are now a total of nine Centres of Excellence under the National Critical Mineral Mission.
What is the Critical Mineral Recycling Incentive Scheme?
It is a scheme aimed at enhancing the industry’s capacity to recycle critical minerals from e-waste, lithium-ion batteries, and other materials, with financial incentives for recyclers.
What financial support does the recycling scheme provide?
The scheme offers Rs 50 crore for large recyclers and up to Rs 25 crore for small recyclers.
