Ministry of Mines issues guidelines for critical mineral recycling scheme

The Ministry of Mines has released implementation guidelines for a Rs 15 billion incentive scheme approved by the Union Cabinet to promote critical mineral recycling. The scheme, part of the National Critical Mineral Mission, aims to build domestic capacity to extract critical minerals from secondary sources.

Eligible feedstocks include e-waste, spent lithium-ion batteries, and other scrap materials. Both new and existing units involved in actual mineral extraction, rather than just black mass production, can receive support. 

The incentives cover investments in new units as well as expansion, modernisation, or diversification of existing facilities. The scheme is expected to benefit large, established recyclers as well as smaller units and start-ups.