India is reportedly exploring rare earth samples from Russia as part of its intensified efforts to diversify critical mineral supply chains away from China. State-owned miner Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) is in discussions with Russian oil giant Rosneft to source samples from the Tomtor deposit in Siberia, which Rosneft acquired last year.
According to a Reuters source, the discussions are being conducted through government channels. The samples would be processed in Russia before being shipped to India, the source added. India plans to first study the mineral composition of Tomtor before considering any deeper engagement, with the talks remaining confidential.
Strategic Push for Rare Earths
IREL, operating under the Department of Atomic Energy, is leading India's overseas push for rare earth supplies amid rising domestic demand and strained ties with China. The Tomtor deposit in Yakutia is among the world's largest undeveloped rare earth deposits. Rare earths are crucial inputs for electric vehicle motors, defense systems, and clean energy technologies.
Domestic Initiatives and Global Outreach
India has approved a 73 billion rupees ($770.77 million) program to boost domestic rare earth magnet production, but it still lacks large-scale refining capacity for high-purity separation. The country has previously explored sourcing samples from Myanmar and is in parallel discussions with firms in Japan and South Korea. Additionally, India is evaluating mining prospects in Argentina, Australia, and Malawi, with domestic magnet production targeted for 2029–30.
India holds the world's third-largest rare earth reserves at about 7.23 million metric tons but does not currently produce rare earth magnets at scale.
