India’s Critical Mineral Diplomacy: Securing the Green Transition through African Partnerships

In a significant move to bolster its energy security, the Government of India is accelerating plans to acquire critical mineral blocks in African nations, including Zambia, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This strategic initiative, spearheaded by Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL)—a joint venture of NALCO, HCL, and MECL—aims to secure a steady supply of lithium, cobalt, and copper, which are essential for the country’s green energy transition.

The push for critical minerals is driven by India's ambitious targets for Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption and semiconductor manufacturing. Currently, India faces a high degree of import dependency for these minerals, particularly on China, which dominates the global processing and supply chains. By entering into bilateral agreements and joint ventures with African nations, India seeks to create a resilient and diversified supply chain, aligning with the 'China Plus One' strategy adopted by many global economies.

This mineral diplomacy is not merely an economic necessity but a geopolitical imperative. Africa holds some of the world’s largest reserves of transition minerals. India’s approach involves Government-to-Government (G2G) collaborations and technical partnerships, offering a developmental model that contrasts with the extractive practices often criticized in the region. Securing these resources is vital for the success of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes in Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) battery storage and the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) initiative.

However, challenges remain, including navigating the complex regulatory environments of various African states, competing with established global players, and ensuring sustainable mining practices. The success of KABIL in these negotiations will determine India's ability to meet its 'Net Zero' commitment by 2070 and establish itself as a global hub for green technology.