India Finds Promising Rare Earth Element Reserves in Singrauli Coalfields
India Finds Promising Rare Earth Element Reserves in Singrauli Coalfields
Discovery could reduce dependence on China amid global supply tensions
India has discovered promising reserves of rare earth elements (REE) in the Singrauli coalfields of Madhya Pradesh, Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy informed Parliament on Monday.
Rare earth elements, including scandium and yttrium, are vital components in clean energy technologies, electronics, electric vehicles, and various industrial applications. The revelation comes at a time when China, the dominant global supplier of REEs, has restricted exports causing disruptions to India’s automobile sector and sparking worldwide concern.
Replying to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister Reddy said that Coal India Ltd (CIL) has initiated R&D projects to study the presence of REEs in coal mine waste. Preliminary findings from the appraisal of Gondwana Sediments, which include coal, clay, shale, and sandstone, show REE enrichment of 250 parts per million (ppm) in coal samples and 400 ppm in non-coal samples. These findings are considered “promising” in nature.
However, Reddy cautioned that the economic viability of extracting REEs would rely heavily on technological advancements and achieving economies of scale.
The announcement marks a potential strategic shift for India as it seeks to reduce dependency on Chinese supplies. The U.S. has already struck exclusive deals with China for REE imports, adding pressure on countries like India to secure their own sources of these critical minerals.
The discovery in Singrauli could pave the way for greater self-reliance in India’s green and high-tech future.
