Metals & Mining
India's $80 billion coal-power boom is running short of water
Solapur faces increasing water scarcity exacerbated by a coal-fired power plant, highlighting a national dilemma. India plans significant investment in water-intensive coal plants in dry regions to meet energy demands, potentially intensifying conflicts over limited water resources. Chandrapur also struggles with water shortages, impacting residents and power generation, despite plans for expansion.
Critical mineral investments stalled by economic uncertainty despite strong demand outlook: IEA
The IEA reports weakened investment momentum in critical minerals in 2024, despite strong demand expectations. Exploration plateaued, and funding for startups slowed. Refined material production concentrated among top suppliers like Indonesia and China, increasing geographic concentration. Surging supply, particularly from these nations, drove down prices for battery metals, with lithium prices plummeting over 80% since 2023.
Batteries, EVs under threat? India fires on all cylinders for rare earths amid China's tightening grip
India is accelerating its efforts to secure critical mineral supplies, driven by China's increasing control over rare earth elements. New Delhi is forging partnerships with Central Asian nations and implementing an incentive scheme for mineral recycling under the National Critical Mineral Mission.
India, five central Asian countries express interest in joint rare earth mineral exploration amid Chinese restrictions
India and five Central Asian nations are keen to collaborate on exploring rare earths and critical minerals, as stated after the India-Central Asia Dialogue in New Delhi. Following the first Rare Earth Forum, they plan further discussions and delegation exchanges to identify new cooperation areas. This initiative aims to diversify the rare earth supply chain, currently dominated by China.
Hindustan Zinc says committed to reduce freshwater consumption by 50 pc by 2030
Hindustan Zinc Ltd (HZL) commits to slash freshwater consumption by 50% by 2030, aiming for 100% low-quality water usage in smelting. The company inaugurated a zero liquid discharge plant at Rampura Agucha. HZL's water positivity index has improved to 3.32, reinforcing its dedication to sustainable water management and a resilient future.
Centre plans speeding up MMDR amendments to boost critical mineral availability
India is accelerating efforts to enhance the domestic availability of critical minerals, prompted by concerns over concentrated global supply chains and geopolitical tensions. Amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act are being expedited.
Lloyds’ Surjagarh mine set to be the first ‘green mine’ of India
Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd's Surjagarh Iron Ore Mine in Maharashtra is pioneering green mining in India, aiming to be the first of its kind. Through green technologies and a commitment to decarbonization, the mine has significantly reduced CO₂ emissions.
Incentive scheme for recycling of critical minerals on anvil, says Official
Earlier, the government had approved a Rs 16,300-crore National Critical Mineral Mission, envisaging a total outlay of Rs 34,300 crore spread over seven years, with an aim to achieve self-reliance and accelerate India's journey towards green energy transition.
China and India lead modest revival in Asia thermal coal imports
Thermal coal imports in Asia show signs of recovery. Lower prices attract major buyers like China and India. China's Australian coal imports rise recently. India's imports increase from Indonesia and Russia. Russian coal becomes competitive. Overall, declining prices may increase demand. Sustained low prices are crucial for continued importer interest. The market watches closely for further developments.
India, Italy get into a huddle over critical mineral squeeze
India and Italy have expressed concerns regarding the dominance of a few nations over critical minerals, highlighting the potential risks to economic development. Both countries are exploring ways to reduce over-reliance on specific suppliers for these essential components used in semiconductors, aerospace, and EV batteries. Joint ventures between Indian and Italian private sectors are being considered to diversify supply chains.
Must Watch
Vedanta Aluminium partners PwC India to scale up sustainability initiatives in Odisha, Chhattisgarh
Vedanta Aluminium is growing its sustainability work with PwC India. The focus will be on projects in Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The partnership will now include all operational areas. Decarbonisation, water conservation, and biodiversity are key goals. Vedanta aims for carbon neutrality by 2050. This supports India's net-zero target for 2070. The company wants to lead a more sustainable aluminium industry.
Coal India’s eco-friendly transport rises 34% to 102.5 MT in FY25
Coal India Limited reports a significant increase in eco-friendly coal transport. It grew 34% to 102.5 million tonnes in fiscal year 2025. This is facilitated by 20 First Mile Connectivity projects. CIL plans to commission 19 more FMC projects by fiscal year 2026. These initiatives aim for automated, eco-friendly coal evacuation.
Vedanta to use Rs 5,000 cr NCD funds to cut high-cost debt, save Rs 350 crore in interest
Vedanta Ltd plans to save ₹350 crore in interest by using ₹5,000 crore raised through unsecured NCDs to retire high-cost debt. The NCD issue was oversubscribed by 60%, attracting diverse investors like mutual funds and insurance companies. A portion of the funds will also be allocated to growth capex and other corporate purposes.
Vedanta exploring using biodiesel in its commercial vehicle fleet in Odisha's Jharsuguda plant
Vedanta Ltd is exploring biodiesel for its commercial vehicles in Jharsuguda, Odisha, and aims to fully decarbonize its light motor vehicle fleet by 2030. The company is also using biomass briquettes at its Lanjigarh refinery and BALCO smelter, and has introduced electric forklifts to reduce emissions. These initiatives reflect Vedanta's commitment to sustainable and responsible growth in the aluminium industry.
Trump's new move could hammer India’s factories, and wreck exports and jobs
President Trump's decision to double tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 50% has sparked global trade concerns, particularly for India's export sector, which faces potential job losses and revenue declines. While the UK secured an exemption, India is considering retaliatory measures and seeking a similar waiver amid ongoing trade negotiations with the US.
Vedanta Resources seeks $550 million refinancing
Vedanta Resources is in talks with lenders from the Middle East, Europe, and Japan to refinance a $550 million credit facility maturing in 2026. The refinancing aims to prepay a high-cost loan with an 18% coupon, potentially saving the company around $47 million with significantly lower interest rates. Discussions are underway with several banks to secure the new facility.
