What happened?
The Ministry of Mines, through a gazette notification on 20 February 2025, reclassified Barytes, Felspar, Mica, and Quartz from minor to major minerals. This decision follows the Union Cabinet’s approval of the National Critical Mineral Mission on 29 January 2025, aimed at enhancing the exploration and recovery of critical minerals from various sources, including overburden and tailings. The reclassification seeks to encourage scientific mining and proper reporting of associated critical minerals like Lithium and Beryl, often overlooked under minor mineral leases.
Why it matters to India:
This strategic move supports India’s energy transition and technological ambitions by promoting the extraction of critical minerals essential for clean energy, electronics, and healthcare sectors. The new classification ensures better regulatory oversight, increased exploration, and optimal resource utilisation. It also aligns with India’s broader goal of reducing dependency on foreign sources for critical minerals, strengthening domestic supply chains, and fostering economic growth through enhanced mining activities.
