India is proactively engaging with Africa and Latin America to secure access to critical mineral resources, particularly lithium, essential for advancing clean energy technologies. This strategic move aims to reduce the country's dependence on imports and foster private Indian investments in overseas mineral blocks. Veena Kumari Dermal, joint secretary in the mines ministry, highlighted on-going discussions with resource-rich nations to secure mineral blocks on a priority basis, potentially through government-to-government agreements. Dermal emphasised the importance of these minerals in the energy transition, particularly for technologies like wind power and electric vehicles. Speaking at the India Energy Storage Week 2024, she noted that the mines ministry is working closely with the external affairs ministry to support private investments and facilitate the production of these mineral blocks. Efforts include engaging with Indian embassies in countries such as Chile, Peru, and Argentina, as well as various African nations, to establish connections with their mineral departments and stay updated on new developments in their mining sectors. (Source: ET)