As India Ramps Up Critical Mineral Hunt, Sri Lanka Offers Graphite, Beach Sand Prospects
India and Sri Lanka on Saturday (15 February) discussed potential cooperation in mineral exploration, focusing on Sri Lanka’s graphite and beach sand resources, which hold strategic importance for clean energy and high-tech industries.
Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey met with Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Government of Sri Lanka, at Shastri Bhawan in New Delhi on Saturday to explore opportunities for bilateral collaboration in the mining sector.
Focus on Critical Minerals for Energy and Technology
The discussions focused on fostering bilateral cooperation in mineral exploration and mining, particularly in securing critical minerals essential for both nations’ economic and industrial growth.
A key focus was placed on Sri Lanka’s vast graphite and beach sand mineral resources, which hold immense potential in supporting the global shift towards clean energy, advanced battery technologies, and high-tech industries, according to a Ministry of Mines statement.
Dubey emphasised that India’s National Critical Mineral Mission aims to secure a steady supply of essential minerals, including lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt, and copper, to meet the country’s ambitious renewable energy targets.
He stated that India is actively working towards granting mining rights for critical minerals, forging international partnerships, and encouraging Indian companies to acquire mineral assets globally.
The talks also covered opportunities for Indian companies to invest in Sri Lanka’s mining sector and explore mineral assets through strategic partnerships.
Government-to-Government Cooperation in Mining
Both leaders discussed the possibility of mineral exploration on a Government-to-Government (G2G) basis, with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) expressing interest in conducting mineral assessments in Sri Lanka.
In response, the Sri Lankan side urged India to encourage Indian companies to participate in the exploration and development of its graphite and beach sand resources.
MoU on Mineral Cooperation Under Consideration
The two sides also deliberated on finalising a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on “Cooperation in the Field of Geology and Mineral Resources” between India’s Ministry of Mines and Sri Lanka’s Geological Survey & Mines Bureau.
Dubey expressed confidence that this MoU, once concluded, will provide a strong framework for deepening collaboration in capacity building, mining exploration, and advanced mineral processing.
He reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in skill development, knowledge exchange, and modernising its mining industry through technological and financial assistance.
Strengthening Economic and Strategic Ties
Speaking on the occasion, Dubey stated, “India and Sri Lanka share a long-standing partnership, and our cooperation in the mining sector will further strengthen our economic ties. By working together, we can harness the full potential of our mineral resources, ensuring mutual growth and sustainability.”
Both leaders also agreed on accelerating efforts toward formalising agreements and exploring new avenues for cooperation in the mineral sector.
16 Viewers
