Coal India signs MoU with Hindustan Copper to explore critical minerals

Coal India Limited (CIL) has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) to explore joint opportunities in copper and critical minerals.

The move marks CIL’s growing push beyond coal, aligning with India’s National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM).  

CIL is targeting minerals used in batteries, electric vehicles, and clean energy technologies.

The company’s international strategy supports this shift. India joined the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) in June 2023 to help public sector undertakings acquire overseas mineral assets. While Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL) leads many deals, CIL’s participation is growing. Its role complements India’s broader effort to reduce import dependence, particularly on China, which dominates global rare earth processing.

Domestically, CIL is investing in critical mineral recovery from coal mine waste. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified rare earth reserves in Rajasthan, including 1,11,845 tonnes of Rare Earth Oxides in Balotra. These are now part of CIL’s area of interest.

While the Ministry of Mines leads the NCMM, CIL’s efforts signal the Coal Ministry’s shift toward strategic mineral security. With over 195 exploration projects underway and more than 100 critical mineral blocks up for auction, CIL is positioning itself to play a key role in India’s critical mineral future.