New Delhi, June 4: The strategic partnership between India and the United Kingdom (UK) in the field of critical minerals has achieved another significant milestone. Following the announcement by Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Keir Starmer in 2025 to establish a Critical Minerals Supply Chain Observatory, a major step has now been taken. On Thursday, Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper jointly inaugurated the India-UK Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory (GSCOS) Satellite Center, as stated in an official release.
On this occasion, Minister G. Kishan Reddy emphasized that this observatory will play a crucial role in developing a secure, sustainable, and reliable supply chain for critical minerals worldwide. He noted that with the rapid expansion of clean energy, advanced technologies, and digital transformation, critical minerals are becoming the backbone of the global economy. This observatory will serve as the central hub for the world’s largest digital material flow map.
The minister further stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the central government is prioritizing self-reliance in the critical minerals sector to achieve the goal of a ‘developed India’ by 2047. To this end, a $4 billion National Critical Minerals Mission has been launched, aimed at strengthening exploration, mining, processing, recycling, and innovation in minerals.
The statement also mentioned that the government is implementing a special $180 million scheme to promote the recycling of critical minerals. Additionally, nine Centers of Excellence have been established across the country. The government is taking steps to recover valuable minerals from industrial waste and develop mineral assets abroad to enhance the country’s mineral security.
G. Kishan Reddy indicated that the central government is making several policy reforms to boost investment in the minerals sector. A transparent e-auction system is being introduced, along with new opportunities for private companies and junior mining firms. He stated that through expedited approval processes and investment-friendly policies, India is positioning itself as one of the most attractive countries for investment in the minerals sector.
The Union Minister invited UK companies, investors, and technical institutions to invest in India’s critical minerals sector. He expressed that the UK’s expertise in mineral processing and mining technology could accelerate the development of strategic sectors in India, such as electric vehicles, defense, aerospace, and semiconductors.
He expressed confidence that this observatory will evolve into a globally recognized Critical Minerals Intelligence Center, providing essential data and analysis to industries, researchers, and investors, thereby aiding in better decision-making and promoting new projects.
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