What is the Progress of the Rs 1,500-Crore Critical Mineral Recycling Scheme?
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Synopsis
The Ministry of Mines has reviewed the implementation of the Rs 1,500-crore incentive scheme aimed at recycling critical minerals. This crucial initiative is part of India's broader efforts to enhance recycling capabilities for sustainable development.
Key Takeaways
- The Rs 1,500 crore scheme supports recycling critical minerals.
- JNARDDC acts as the Project Management Agency.
- The application process is open for six months.
- The initiative targets E-waste and Lithium-ion battery recycling.
- Engagement sessions are conducted to support stakeholders.
New Delhi, Nov 25 (NationPress) On Tuesday, Piyush Goyal, Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, conducted a review of the implementation progress regarding the Rs 1,500 crore incentive scheme dedicated to critical mineral recycling.
In attendance were officials from the Ministry, alongside representatives from the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research, Development & Design Centre (JNARDDC) located in Nagpur, which has been designated as the Project Management Agency (PMA) for this initiative.
The Secretary (Mines) examined various components of the application process.
JNARDDC reported that a substantial number of entities have already registered on the designated portal set up for application submissions.
This Incentive Scheme plays a vital role within the National Critical Mineral Mission, focusing on enhancing the country's recycling capabilities for extracting critical minerals from secondary sources such as E-waste, spent Lithium-ion Batteries (LiBs), and other scrap materials.
The Union Cabinet had previously approved this Scheme on September 3 of this year, after which it was officially launched in October with comprehensive guidelines. The application window is open for six months, from October 2, 2025, until April 1, 2026.
On November 21, JNARDDC, in its capacity as the PMA, organized a Workshop and Interactive Stakeholder Consultation, engaging approximately 30 prospective beneficiaries—half of whom participated in person at JNARDDC, while others joined online.
Participants included start-ups, established recyclers, technology providers, and industrial stakeholders keen on enhancing India’s critical mineral recycling ecosystem.
They received insights into various aspects such as portal registration, application submission, eligibility requirements, documentation stipulations, and the incentive disbursement process.
The session addressed procedural and operational queries, with the PMA offering hands-on assistance to stakeholders needing help with the portal registration and application submission process, which included a demonstration of the complete online workflow to ensure submissions were accurate and timely.
During the review on Tuesday, Secretary (Mines) urged JNARDDC to continue conducting such consultations and engagement sessions throughout the implementation phase to support stakeholders effectively and guarantee the Scheme's success.
JNARDDC reaffirmed its dedication to providing ongoing support through helpdesk assistance and clarifications.
Point of View
The progress of the Rs 1,500 crore critical mineral recycling scheme signifies a pivotal step toward enhancing India's recycling capabilities. As the nation aims to reduce waste and improve resource management, the active involvement of stakeholders and comprehensive support from the Ministry of Mines are crucial for the scheme's success.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Rs 1,500 crore scheme?
The scheme aims to enhance India's capacity for recycling critical minerals from secondary sources like E-waste and spent Lithium-ion batteries.
Who is managing the scheme?
The Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research, Development & Design Centre (JNARDDC) has been appointed as the Project Management Agency for the scheme.
When was the scheme approved?
The Union Cabinet approved the scheme on September 3, 2023.
How long is the application window for the scheme?
The application window is open from October 2, 2025, to April 1, 2026.
What types of entities can apply?
Start-ups, established recyclers, technology providers, and industrial stakeholders can participate in the scheme.
