India is dramatically accelerating its efforts to reshape the global rare earths landscape, implementing a comprehensive strategy to break free from its longstanding dependence on China for these crucial minerals. The nation is actively forging new international partnerships while simultaneously boosting domestic capabilities to secure its position in the critical minerals supply chain.
Global Partnerships and Strategic Expansion
The Indian government is pursuing an aggressive diplomatic and commercial campaign to diversify its sources of rare earth elements. New mineral agreements are being established with key nations across the globe, marking a significant shift in India's resource security policy. This international push includes strengthening ties with countries in Latin America, particularly Venezuela, and enhancing mineral cooperation with Canada.
These strategic moves are designed to create multiple, reliable streams of rare earth minerals into India, reducing the risk of supply disruptions. The expanded partnerships with Latin American nations and Canada represent a calculated effort to tap into alternative mineral-rich regions outside China's dominant sphere of influence.
Domestic Mining and Strategic Reserves
Parallel to its international efforts, India is significantly ramping up its domestic mining operations for rare earth elements. The government has initiated plans to boost domestic mining capacity through technological upgrades and exploration of new mining sites across the country.
Perhaps most significantly, India is establishing a strategic reserve for critical minerals, mirroring approaches taken for oil and other essential commodities. This reserve will serve as a buffer against global market fluctuations and potential supply chain disruptions, ensuring Indian industries have continuous access to these vital materials.
Rewiring the Supply Chain for the Future
This multi-pronged approach represents Delhi's comprehensive plan to re-wire its critical-minerals supply chain for the next decade. The strategy addresses both immediate needs and long-term security concerns regarding rare earth elements, which are essential for everything from consumer electronics to defense technologies and renewable energy systems.
The accelerated timeline indicates the urgency with which India views reducing its rare earths dependence on China. By combining international partnerships, domestic production increases, and strategic stockpiling, India aims to create a resilient and self-reliant critical minerals ecosystem that can support its growing technological and industrial ambitions.
This strategic shift, updated as recently as November 19, 2025, positions India to better compete in the global technology race while securing the fundamental building blocks required for its economic and technological development in the coming years.
