On 16 June 2026, India and the UK launched the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory (GSCO) in New Delhi to monitor supply chain vulnerabilities and track global mineral flows. The initiative, part of the India–UK Technology Security Initiative, aims to secure resources for clean energy and strategic industries. The platform is a joint research venture between TEXMiN (IIT ISM Dhanbad) and the University of Cambridge.
Core Objectives
- Resource Intelligence: Utilizes big data and remote sensing to map the entire lifecycle of critical minerals, from extraction to final application.
- Risk Mitigation: Functions as an early-warning mechanism for supply disruptions, price volatility, and geopolitical risks.
- Policy Support: Provides data-driven insights for India’s National Critical Mineral Mission and facilitates mineral circularity and recycling strategies.
Strategic Relevance
Critical minerals (e.g., Lithium, Cobalt, Rare Earth Elements) are vital for EVs, defense, and aerospace. They are characterized by a lack of viable substitutes and high geographical concentration, making supply chain security a national priority.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- TEXMiN: Established at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS).
- Critical Minerals List: The Ministry of Mines has identified 30 minerals as critical for India’s economic and technological security.
- KABIL: A JV of NALCO, HCL, and MECL tasked with acquiring strategic mineral assets overseas (e.g., Lithium in Argentina).
- Mineral Security Partnership (MSP): A US-led global initiative to ensure diverse, sustainable supply chains, which India joined in 2023.
- Policy Reform: The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act was amended to enable private sector participation in the exploration of deep-seated and critical minerals.