India’s National Critical Mineral Mission commits $4 billion to secure critical minerals essential for clean energy transition, though this is modest compared to global needs. The article outlines innovative financing approaches to overcome the sector’s high risks—including volatile prices and lengthy project timelines—that have limited India to using less than 10% of its mineral potential. Proposed solutions include government-backed loans with royalty-based repayment, purchase guarantees, PSU-led joint ventures, specialized credit lines, and strategic infrastructure investments. These mechanisms aim to catalyze private investment by sharing risks, potentially creating economic multiplier effects while advancing India’s manufacturing self-reliance and climate goals.
