The strategic importance of critical minerals in strengthening India’s defence preparedness and long-term economic vision was underscored during a recent high-level roundtable held in New Delhi. The event, titled “Minerals That Matter: Geopolitics, Sovereignty & Value Chains,” was jointly organised by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) and IP Bazzaar.
The roundtable brought together senior policymakers, defence officials, industry leaders, technology experts, academicians and intellectual property professionals to deliberate on the growing significance of critical minerals amid evolving geopolitical and supply-chain challenges.
Defence and Strategic Vulnerability
In his inaugural address, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, highlighted the central role of critical minerals in modern defence systems. He noted that advanced defence technologies such as jet engines, missiles, precision-guided munitions, radars, satellites, batteries and semiconductors are highly dependent on reliable access to these minerals.
He pointed out that global supply chains for critical minerals remain highly concentrated and are increasingly affected by export controls and geopolitical tensions. This dependence, he said, poses a strategic vulnerability for India in achieving its objectives of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Focus on Indigenous Capabilities
The discussions also highlighted India’s ongoing efforts to build domestic capabilities across the critical minerals ecosystem. Key initiatives include the identification of minerals critical to national security, the launch of the National Critical Mineral Mission, and policy measures aimed at strengthening the entire value chain—from mining and processing to recycling.
These initiatives are intended to reduce import dependence and ensure long-term supply security for both defence and strategic industries.
Knowledge and Research Initiatives
A major outcome of the roundtable was the launch of a compilation of 30 technical reports on critical minerals, covering aspects such as resource potential, intellectual property landscapes and market assessments. The reports aim to support informed policymaking and industry participation in this strategic sector.
Key Takeaway
The discussions reinforced the need for resilient and diversified mineral supply chains to support India’s defence preparedness and economic growth ambitions. Strengthening access to critical minerals was highlighted as a key enabler for technological advancement, national security and sustainable development in the coming decades.
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