On November 14, 2024, India’s Ministry of Mines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Energy Agency (IEA) to strengthen cooperation in the critical minerals sector. The MoU, aimed at boosting data sharing, analysis, and policy recommendations, is designed to improve India's decision-making and resource management in this vital area.

The agreement was signed by V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, and Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the IEA, in the presence of Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy. The collaboration will focus on capacity building, joint research, and the development of advanced technologies in mineral extraction, recycling, and processing.

The MoU marks a significant step towards securing India’s strategic mineral resources while aligning national policies with global standards and best practices, supporting the country’s growing energy and technology needs.