As global demand for lithium accelerates—driven by electric vehicles, renewable energy integration, and critical mineral security goals—India is strategically positioning itself to become a major player in the global lithium ecosystem.

India’s Lithium Reality: From Import Dependency to Strategic Action

• India today imports nearly all of its lithium and lithium-ion battery needs, making the nation vulnerable to global supply shocks and pricing pressures.

• In February 2023, the Geological Survey of India identified 5.9 million tonnes of lithium reserves in Jammu & Kashmir, placing India among the top global holders. However, commercially viable extraction from clay fields remains a challenge.

• Reaching operational scale—from discovery to production—typically takes 4 to 7 years, requiring significant policy support and private investment.

Global Industry Trends: Technology & Geopolitics

• China dominates over 75–80% of global lithium refining capacity—a supply concentration that exposes global markets to geopolitical risk.

• India is actively expanding its international alliances to secure mineral access—including partnerships with Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Australia, and the US via entities like KABIL and the Mineral Security Partnership.

Vardhaan Lithium: Powering India’s Strategic Leap

Vardhaan Lithium (I) Pvt. Ltd. is driving India’s domestic lithium infrastructure forward:

• India’s first integrated lithium refinery and battery facility is under development in Nagpur (Butibori, Maharashtra)—covering 500 acres, backed by a ₹42,532 crore investment.

• The facility will annually refine 60,000 tonnes of lithium and manufacture 20 GWh of batteries—addressing EV and energy storage demand.

• Strategic partnerships with leading U.S. and European technology firms ensure battery-grade quality and operational efficiency.

• Backed by its lithium mining venture in Zimbabwe, Vardhaan’s vertical integration ensures supply chain resilience and strategic autonomy.

Final Outlook

India is poised to become a key player in the global lithium supply chain—shifting from a net importer to a strategic force. While challenges remain—including resource commercialization, technology gaps, and global competition—projects like Vardhaan Lithium signal a formidable leap forward. Powered by integration, policy support, and international partnerships, India is steadily building the infrastructure and resilience needed to compete globally in the lithium era.