Lithium is a chemical element (Li, atomic number 3), the lightest solid metal, and a highly reactive alkali metal often referred to as "white gold". It is classified as a critical mineral in India, a designation highlighted in the Ministry of Mines Committee report of June 2023.
The element's modern significance, which began after its identification in the early 19th century, is rooted in its role in the clean energy transition. Its lightweight nature and high energy-storing capability make it the key component in rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. These batteries are essential for solving the problem of transitioning from carbon-based energy sources to achieve India's net zero emission targets. The mechanism involves lithium ions moving between the anode and cathode to provide high energy density for applications like smartphones, laptops, and Electric Vehicles (EVs).
Lithium connects directly to India's strategic initiatives, such as the National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage, which incentivizes EV manufacturing. Geopolitically, India is diversifying its supply through diplomacy and the public sector enterprise KABIL (Khanij Bidesh India Limited), which seeks overseas assets in regions like the "Lithium Triangle".
The concept has changed recently with the discovery of an inferred resource of 5.9 million tonnes of lithium in the Salal-Haimana area of the Reasi District in Jammu and Kashmir in February 2023. This discovery, along with the passage of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment of August 2023, underscores a major policy shift towards strengthening domestic exploration and reducing India's heavy reliance on imports from countries like China.