Is Ashwini Vaishnaw in the US for a Crucial Ministerial Meeting on Critical Minerals?
Synopsis
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's participation in the 'Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting' in the US highlights India's commitment to securing critical mineral supply chains. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance domestic manufacturing and reduce import dependencies, ultimately supporting India's ambitious vision for a self-reliant economy.
Key Takeaways
Ashwini Vaishnaw is attending the Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting in the US.
The meeting is focused on securing critical mineral supply chains .
India's REPM manufacturing scheme aims for self-reliance.
The scheme includes an investment of Rs 7,280 crore .
Partnerships with mineral-rich nations are crucial for India's strategy.
New Delhi, Jan 11 (NationPress) Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, responsible for Railways and Electronics & IT, has landed in the US to attend the ‘Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting’, which is set for Monday (US time).
In a post shared on social media platform X, he remarked, “Secure critical mineral supply chains are essential for our vision of Viksit Bharat.”
“Just arrived in Washington, D.C. I will be taking part in the Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting tomorrow. Securing critical mineral supply chains is crucial for achieving our goal of Viksit Bharat,” he added in his post.
The Indian government has recently introduced a scheme aimed at promoting the production of sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM), which seeks to bolster India’s role in global advanced-materials supply chains while decreasing reliance on imports.
With a financial commitment of Rs 7,280 crore, the initiative aims to facilitate long-term industrial growth by establishing a manufacturing capability of 6,000 metric tonnes per annum for integrated REPM, covering the entire process from rare-earth oxides to finished magnets, according to a recent official statement.
This initiative is designed to improve competitiveness, attract technology-driven investments, and support long-term scalability, all while contributing to energy-transition goals and India's Net Zero 2070 vision. By building domestic capabilities and strengthening downstream connections, this government initiative will create jobs, enhance industrial capacity, and support the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The scheme will allocate a total of 6,000 MTPA of domestic production capacity among five beneficiaries through global competitive bidding, with each beneficiary eligible for up to 1,200 MTPA.
The plan includes Rs 6,450 crore in sales-linked incentives over five years and a Rs 750 crore capital subsidy, set to be rolled out over seven years with a two-year gestation period followed by five years of incentive distribution, as stated by the government.
The Ministry of Mines has also forged bilateral agreements with mineral-rich nations such as Australia, Argentina, Zambia, Peru, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
Furthermore, India engages in multilateral frameworks like the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) to establish robust critical minerals supply chains.
Point of View
Ashwini Vaishnaw's attendance at the Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting signifies India's strategic approach to securing its mineral supply chains. This initiative not only aims to enhance manufacturing capabilities but also reinforces the government's commitment to achieving a self-reliant economy, aligning with national interests and global partnerships.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting?
The meeting aims to discuss and secure critical mineral supply chains that are essential for various industries, including technology and renewable energy.
What is the significance of Ashwini Vaishnaw's visit to the US?
His visit underscores India's commitment to strengthening international partnerships and enhancing its domestic manufacturing capabilities in critical minerals.
What is the investment amount for the REPM manufacturing scheme?
The scheme has a financial outlay of Rs 7,280 crore aimed at establishing a robust manufacturing framework.
How will the REPM scheme benefit India?
It aims to reduce import dependence, create jobs, and support long-term industrial growth while contributing to India's Net Zero 2070 vision.
Which countries has India partnered with for mineral resources?
India has entered into agreements with countries like Australia, Argentina, Zambia, Peru, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
