# India's Mines Ministry Launches Lithium-Nickel Processing Incentives

> India's government will create incentives for domestic lithium and nickel processing to build a critical minerals value chain and cut imports.
- Title: India's Mines Ministry Launches Lithium-Nickel Processing…
- Summary: India's government will create incentives for domestic lithium and nickel processing to build a critical minerals value chain and cut imports. India's new…
- Keywords: lithium, nickel, critical minerals, domestic processing, mines ministry, india, value chain, processing parks, gujarat, maharashtra, odisha, andhra pradesh
- Source: The Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/metals-mining/mines-ministry-to-launch-incentive-scheme-for-domestic-lithium-nickel-processing/articleshow/134414562.cms
- Author: PTI
- Published: 2026-09-22T14:20:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: lithium, nickel, critical minerals, domestic processing, mines ministry, india, value chain, processing parks, gujarat, maharashtra, odisha, andhra pradesh
## New Incentive Scheme Launching
India's Mines Ministry will soon launch an incentive scheme to promote domestic processing of lithium and nickel.

> Very soon, we will be launching our scheme for lithium and nickel
## Critical Minerals Value Chain Goal
The initiative aims to create an integrated critical mineral value chain and reduce India's dependence on imported processed materials.
## State Preparation Progress
Four states have identified mineral sources, processing methods, and downstream industries for critical mineral processing parks.

> All of them are doing a fantastic job. Within a short period, they have identified the sources of minerals, the manner in which they will be processed and the downstream industries that can be developed
## Addressing Mining Block Issues
The government flags concerns over mining blocks not starting operations despite having clearances and leases.

> Somebody has secured a mining block, all clearances have been obtained, and the lease has been signed, but operationalisation has still not commenced
## Lithium and Nickel Importance
Lithium powers electric vehicle batteries and consumer electronics; nickel supports high-energy-density batteries and reduces cobalt reliance.
## Key takeaway

India's new incentive scheme targets domestic lithium and nickel processing to reduce reliance on imported battery materials.