critical minerals

India and the US have signed a bilateral framework to secure supplies, mining, and processing of critical minerals and rare earth elements. This agreement aims to strengthen resilient and diversified supply chains, fostering collaboration on financing and management of these vital resources. The pact underscores the strategic importance of the growing partnership between the two nations.

Deccan Gold Mines has announced a significant discovery of nickel, copper, and palladium mineralisation in Chhattisgarh during initial drilling at its Bhalukona project. This breakthrough could lead to India's first nickel-copper-PGE mine, crucial for the nation's electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors. The company's findings reinforce the project's strategic importance for India's critical minerals ecosystem.

The Quad nations have launched a new energy security framework for the Indo-Pacific, focusing on strategic fuel reserves and emergency response to counter supply disruptions. This initiative, announced after a meeting in New Delhi, also emphasizes maritime surveillance, critical minerals cooperation, and trusted infrastructure projects, aiming to bolster regional stability and economic resilience.

Experts urge India to boost domestic gold mining, citing risks of import reliance. The Jonnagiri project is highlighted as a model for scientific exploration and private investment. Faster approvals and policy stability are crucial to unlock India's vast untapped mineral wealth, reduce foreign exchange outflow, and foster regional development.

India is set to host a crucial Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) meeting, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expected to attend. This high-level gathering, involving India, the US, Japan, and Australia, is seen as a strategic move to counter China's influence in the Indo-Pacific. The meeting will likely address critical mineral supply chains and regional security concerns.

India and Italy have elevated their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, fostering deeper cooperation in defence, technology, and trade. A defence roadmap for co-development and co-production of military platforms was agreed upon, alongside an ambitious €20 billion trade target by 2029. Discussions also covered global security, including West Asia and Ukraine, and maritime cooperation.