Nagpur is set to host India’s first lithium refinery and battery manufacturing facility, backed by an investment of Rs 425.32 billion, according to an official release on Saturday. The Maharashtra government signed an agreement with Vardhaan Lithium (I) Pvt. Ltd at Davos, Switzerland, to establish the state-of-the-art refinery in Butibori, Nagpur. 

Vardhaan Lithium stated that the project marks a transformative milestone for India's energy and industrial sectors. The refinery aims to reduce India’s reliance on lithium imports by creating a robust domestic supply chain and strengthening the nation’s position in global energy markets. 

Spanning 500 acres, the facility will have an annual refining capacity of 60,000 tonnes of lithium and a production capability of 20 GWh of batteries. This capacity is expected to play a pivotal role in meeting India’s rising demand for lithium-based products, powering vehicles, homes, and industries. 

Sunil Joshi, Chairman of Vardhaan Lithium, emphasised that the refinery will not only meet domestic demand but also position India as a leader in clean energy solutions. He added that the advanced facility represents a significant step toward achieving self-sufficiency in critical energy resources and contributing to the country’s clean energy goals. 

(ET)