India-Russia Forge Mega Plan on Critical Minerals and Rare Earths, Challenging China and US Dominance

New Delhi: India and Russia have joined hands to tackle one of the world’s most pressing strategic challenges — critical minerals and rare earth elements (REEs). This joint initiative marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral cooperation and reducing global dependence on China’s monopoly over these essential resources.

A Landmark India-Russia Partnership
During the annual India-Russia summit held in early December in Delhi, both countries discussed critical minerals and rare earths extensively. Following the summit, India and Russia have accelerated efforts to establish joint projects in this sector. The collaboration covers exploration, processing, and refining technologies for these vital natural resources, which are essential for green energy initiatives and modern technological applications.

Strategic Implications
Experts say the partnership sends a strong signal to China and the United States, both of which have been attempting to dominate the global supply of critical minerals. Over recent months, China has leveraged its near-monopoly to influence the global market, while the US launched initiatives like the Critical Technology and Minerals Alliance (PAX Silica), deliberately excluding India. The India-Russia collaboration, therefore, represents a significant geopolitical and economic counterbalance.

Investment and Industrial Potential
According to Andre Goline, Director at the Giredmet Institute and member of the Rare Earth Metals Association, joint investments by Russia and India in developing rare earth and critical mineral reserves could reach several hundred million dollars. Rising demand in industries such as electric mobility and wind energy has fueled India’s growing interest in these resources. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of a critical mineral partnership during the summit on December 5–6.

Russia’s Rare Earth Treasure
Russia is home to one of the world’s largest reserves of rare earth elements, estimated to contain 29 types of rare earth metals totaling 658 million tons. Significant deposits are located in Vozyerskoye (Kola Peninsula), Tomtor (Yakutia), and the Krasnoyarsk and Irkutsk regions, including niobium-rich ore. Although mining has been limited so far, Russian reserves rank fifth globally, offering immense potential for industrial and technological use.

A Strategic Blow to China and the US
The global scramble for rare earths and critical minerals intensified after China’s attempts to control supply, giving it considerable leverage over the world market. With India excluded from the US-led alliance, the India-Russia partnership emerges as a strategic counterweight, ensuring both nations greater control over supply chains critical for modern technology and green energy.

This new collaboration signals a shift in global dynamics, as India and Russia seek to secure their positions in an increasingly competitive sector of strategic minerals.