Question : FDI in Mining Sector

(a) whether the Government has allowed 100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the mining sector and exploration of metal/non-metal ores under the automatic route and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the Government has directed three State-owned mineral companies – National Aluminium Company (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) and Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL) and private sector teams to acquire lithium and cobalt mines abroad along with other resources to ensure that it has access to such strategic minerals in the wake of the growing use of electric vehicles;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether the Government has identified any lithium and cobalt mines abroad/in other countries for mining purposes and if so, the details thereof; and

(e) whether Bolivia has approached India for exploration and extraction of the metals including manufacturing of value-added products and if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR MINES AND COAL
(SHRI HARIBHAI PARTHIBHAI CHAUDHARY)

(a): Yes, Madam. FDI up to 100% is allowed on the automatic route in mining and exploration of metal and non-metal ores except for mining & mineral separation of Titanium wherein FDI is permitted up to 100% through the government route.
(b) & (c): No, Madam. There is no such proposal to acquire overseas Lithium and Cobalt Mines.

(d): Does not arise in view of the reply given to (b) & (c) above.

(e): No, Madam.

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