The Indian government is considering two more lithium exploration areas in the federally administered region of J&K, according to government officials with direct knowledge of the situation. The estimated reserves in the two blocks will be known by October, according to the officials, who declined to be identified since the information is not public.
This initiative is part of India’s increased efforts to secure domestic lithium supplies, following the finding of 5.9 million metric tonnes of lithium in the Reasi district in February 2023. This was India’s first large discovery of the essential mineral for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy technology.
The government announced in August 2024 a nearly $50 million investment in research institutes that will provide technical competence for mining and processing lithium and other essential minerals. Financial incentives are also being considered to entice private participants to the area.
The discovery of two new lithium blocks in J&K demonstrates the region’s growing relevance as a potential hub for vital minerals. As India pursues its renewable energy ambitions and attempts to lessen reliance on imports, exploring these blocks has the potential to transform the country’s energy security and economic development.
