Exclusive | Coal India eyes critical minerals push, international expansion on cards: CMPDI CMD Manoj Kumar

Coal India Limited (CIL) is now actively pursuing diversification into the critical minerals sector, as the global race for rare earths and strategic minerals intensifies.

In an exclusive interview with Zee Business, CMPDI Chairman & Managing Director Manoj Kumar revealed that Coal India has already initiated two projects in Madhya Pradesh for critical mineral exploration—both of which show strong commercial potential.

“Coal India is looking at critical minerals seriously as part of its diversification strategy. Two projects have already been taken up in Madhya Pradesh, and preliminary studies indicate both mines are commercially viable,” said Manoj Kumar.

The move marks a deliberate pivot by the world’s largest coal producer, as India ramps up efforts to secure key minerals essential for clean energy technologies, electronics, and defence manufacturing — including lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements.

CMPDI, the technical and planning arm of Coal India, is playing a central role in this transformation. According to Kumar, the company is not only involved in domestic exploration and feasibility studies but is also leading efforts to expand Coal India’s presence abroad in the critical minerals space.

“We are actively working on enhancing Coal India’s international footprint. CMPDI has the technical expertise and experience, having worked with clients globally in the planning and development of mineral blocks,” he added.

This includes past and ongoing collaborations with mining and exploration entities in countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where CMPDI has provided consultancy and mine planning services.

Coal India’s diversification aligns with the government’s vision to reduce import dependence for critical minerals and secure long-term supplies for India’s green and high-tech economy. With increasing demand for EV batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and semiconductors, the focus on securing a domestic and overseas supply chain of critical minerals has become urgent.

CMPDI, which is also preparing for an IPO by 2026, continues to drive innovation across coal and allied sectors through initiatives like the National Centre for Coal and Energy Research (NaCCER), and projects in carbon capture, clean coal technology, and AI-based mining.

The strategic pivot toward critical minerals, combined with global expansion and technological leadership, positions Coal India and CMPDI as key players not just in coal — but in the future of India’s resource security.