Government targets 1,000 patents in critical minerals by 2031 under national mission

The Government of India aims to facilitate the filing of 1,000 patents in the critical minerals sector by 2030–31 under the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM), the Ministry of Mines announced on August 8, 2025. Approved by the Union Cabinet in January 2025, the NCMM seeks to build self-reliance in critical minerals essential for green energy and strategic sectors. The initiative involves tracking and supporting patents across the mineral value chain, including exploration, extraction, processing, and recycling. In May and June 2025, 62 patent applications related to critical minerals were filed, and 10 patents were granted. These covered innovations involving lithium, nickel, titanium, tungsten, and vanadium are key to clean energy, electronics, and strategic technologies.
Recent examples include patents for sodium-ion batteries, tungsten–polymer composites, and metal oxide nanoparticles doped with rare earth elements such as ytterbium. The government’s patent drive is part of a broader strategy to localise high-end technologies, reduce import dependence, and bolster India’s role in the global clean energy supply chain. By fostering domestic innovation in critical minerals, the NCMM aims to position the country as a competitive hub for advanced materials and technologies vital for sectors ranging from renewable energy to electronics and defence.

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