India and Russia have strengthened their strategic partnership by focusing on industrial cooperation and joint extraction of rare earth minerals, crucial for modern industries. The development comes amid US pressure on India’s oil imports from Russia and China’s export restrictions on critical minerals.
Background:
- Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are vital for sectors like EVs, wind energy, semiconductors, and defence systems.
- China dominates 85–95% of global REE supply, creating dependency risks.
- Export restrictions by China have already affected India’s automobile manufacturing.
US–India Trade Friction
- US tariffs could cut India’s exports by 40–50% in certain categories.
- Countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh enjoy lower tariffs, making Indian goods less competitive.
- Despite pressure, India imported $52.7 billion worth of Russian oil in 2024 (second to China’s $62.6 billion).
India–Russia Cooperation in Critical Minerals
Key Focus Areas:
- Joint Ventures – Extraction of rare earths and other critical minerals.
- Technology Transfer – Mining equipment, exploration techniques, and processing technologies.
- Underground Coal Gasification – For cleaner energy production.
- Industrial Infrastructure – Building advanced facilities to support mining and processing.
11th Session of India–Russia Working Group (New Delhi)
Sectoral Cooperation:
- Aerospace & Technology: Modern wind tunnel, piston engines for small aircraft, carbon fibre production, additive manufacturing, 3D printing.
- Aluminium & Fertilizers: Enhanced collaboration in production and technology.
- Railway Transport: Technology sharing for modernisation.
- Waste Management: Solutions for both industrial and domestic waste.
Outcome:
- Protocol signed reaffirming strategic partnership and economic deepening.
Scientific Collaboration
- CSIR-IMMT (India) with Giredmet & Rosatom (Russia) signed declarations to:
- Advance critical mineral processing.
- Develop sustainable mining practices.
- Support India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat goals.
Significance of the Partnership
- Strategic Security: Reduces dependency on Chinese REE supply.
- Economic Growth: Opens avenues for industrial modernisation.
- Technological Advancement: Facilitates high-tech manufacturing and R&D.
- Energy Transition: Supports renewable energy and electric mobility sectors.
RARE EARTH MINERALS
- What They Are – Rare earth minerals are a group of 17 metallic elements used in making high-tech products like smartphones, electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defence equipment.
Example: Neodymium (used in strong magnets). - Why Important – They are essential for clean energy, electronics, and military technology, making them strategically important for any country’s economy and security.
Example: Dysprosium (used in EV motors and wind turbines). - Global Supply Issue – China controls 85–95% of global rare earth production, creating dependency risks for other nations.
Example: Lanthanum (used in camera lenses and batteries).
Conclusion:
The India Russia collaboration in rare earth minerals strengthens strategic autonomy and industrial capacity while reducing dependence on China. It also accelerates India’s technological growth and clean energy transition.
