India is paving the way for global leadership in clean energy and advanced manufacturing by strategically prioritizing critical minerals, focusing on technology, sustainability, and responsible mining methods. Mr. Arun Misra, Chairman of the CII National Committee on Mining and CEO of Hindustan Zinc Ltd., emphasized at the Indian Mining Summit 2025 that startups and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing mineral exploration, minimizing risks, and enhancing success rates. He emphasized that India’s mining industry is transitioning from conventional materials such as coal and steel to vital minerals crucial for the green economy, including lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. He highlighted the significance of implementing environmental and social protections, emphasizing waste management, water efficiency, and safeguarding communities. These minerals are essential for industries like electric vehicles, solar power, semiconductors, and electronics production, rendering a reliable and varied domestic supply vital for decreasing import reliance and geopolitical threats. Dr. Arvind Virmani, a member of NITI Aayog, emphasized that a self-sufficient framework for critical minerals should begin at home, with infrastructure, industrial parks, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and backward integration facilitating development. He emphasized utilizing free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries like Australia, the European Union (EU), and the United States (US) to ensure participation in global value chains. Co-Chairman of the CII National Committee on Mining and MD, Mr. Thomas Cherian, along with Co-Chairperson of the CII National Committee on Mining and MD, Ms. Swati Salgaokar, presented a four-point strategy: collaboration between government and industry, global alliances, R&D focused on innovation, and community involvement.