The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has called for a comprehensive overhaul of India’s critical minerals policy, urging the government to allow automatic mining rights to companies awarded Exploration Licences. The industry body also pressed for viability gap funding and focused Free Trade Agreement (FTA) provisions to secure strategic mineral supply chains.“Environmental regulations should be streamlined and enhanced through the adoption of technology. CII recommends implementing a unified compliance framework that consolidates all state and central environmental clearances,” said Rajiv Memani, President of CII, during a press conference in New Delhi, quoted ANI.CII also recommended the establishment of a National Critical Minerals Data Repository to improve data transparency and accessibility. Noting the long gestation period and risks associated with mineral exploration, the industry body emphasised the need for government support through Viability Gap Funding and dedicated financial mechanisms to draw in private investment.To secure overseas supply chains, CII urged the government to include critical minerals in future FTAs with resource-rich countries such as Australia, Peru, Chile, Indonesia, and Oman.In a broader push for energy transition, CII suggested drawing up sector-specific strategies for mobility and creating Green Hydrogen and Renewable Energy hubs. “CII would also be launching a Mission on Energy transition, to encourage industry to shift to low-carbon alternatives,” Memani added.He also flagged growing concerns over raw material shortages in key industries. “Auto is a big concern. In some other sectors also there are concerns. In the auto, the concerns are more serious than what’s come out till now. In fact, some of the most conservative companies are already starting to give some guidance on lowering their production levels going forward,” Memani said.CII projected that India’s economy could grow at 6.4–6.7% in 2026–27, supported by strong domestic demand. The industry body said India has shown greater economic resilience than major global peers such as China, the UK, the US, and the Euro area, and called for next-generation reforms to improve ease of doing business.
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