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India's Critical Mineral Mission: How Rs 1,500 Crore Scheme Boosts Recycling

The Ministry of Mines has launched a major initiative to boost critical mineral recycling in India. This Rs 1,500 crore scheme aims to develop significant recycling capacity from secondary sources like e-waste and used batteries. JNARDDC has been appointed to manage the project and is conducting stakeholder workshops to ensure smooth implementation. The scheme represents a crucial step toward India's self-reliance in critical minerals through sustainable recycling practices.

Key Points: India's Rs 1,500 Crore Critical Mineral Recycling Scheme Launched

  • Scheme targets 3 lakh ton annual recycling capacity for critical minerals
  • Extracts minerals from e-waste, lithium-ion batteries, and industrial scrap
  • JNARDDC appointed as Project Management Agency for implementation
  • Applications accepted until April 1, 2026 through dedicated online portal
2 min read

Rs 1,500 crore Incentive Scheme aims to develop 3 lakh ton annual recycling capacity for Critical Mineral extraction

Ministry of Mines launches Rs 1,500 crore incentive scheme to develop 3 lakh ton annual recycling capacity for critical minerals from e-waste and batteries.

"JNARDDC was asked to conduct such consultations throughout implementation to support stakeholders - Ministry of Mines Press Release"

New Delhi, November 25

The Ministry of Mines has initiated a major plan to build an annual recycling capacity of 3 lakh tonnes for extracting critical minerals from waste, under the Rs 1, 500 crore Incentive Scheme for Critical Mineral Recycling.

The progress of the scheme was reviewed today by Secretary (Mines) Piyush Goyal.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Mines, the meeting was attended by senior ministry officials and representatives of the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research, Development & Design Centre (JNARDDC), Nagpur.

JNARDDC, an autonomous body under the Ministry, has been appointed as the Project Management Agency (PMA) for the scheme. During the review, the Secretary examined the details of the application process and ongoing registrations on the scheme's dedicated portal. JNARDDC informed that a substantial number of entities have already registered to take part in the initiative.

The Incentive scheme is a central part of the National Critical Mineral Mission. It focuses on extracting valuable minerals from secondary sources such as e-waste, used lithium-ion batteries, and industrial scrap. Approved by the Union Cabinet on September 3, 2025, the scheme was officially launched with detailed guidelines on October 2, 2025. Applications are being accepted for a six-month window between October 2, 2025, and April 1, 2026.

To engage stakeholders, JNARDDC recently conducted a Workshop and Interactive Consultation on November 21, 2025.

The session brought together about 30 participants, including start-ups, recyclers, and technology providers, with half attending in person at Nagpur and the rest joining virtually. Officials briefed them on registration, eligibility, required documents, and the incentive disbursement process. The PMA also demonstrated the complete online workflow to ensure clarity and smooth application submission.

"During the review by Secretary (Mines) today, JNARDDC was asked to conduct such consultations and engagement sessions throughout the implementation phase to support stakeholders and ensure the successful implementation of the Scheme. JNARDDC also reaffirmed its commitment to extend continuous support through helpdesk assistance and clarificatory responses," the release said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
₹1,500 crore is a substantial investment. Hope the implementation is transparent and reaches the actual recyclers and startups, not just big corporations. The helpdesk support mentioned is crucial for small players.
R
Rohit P
Finally addressing the e-waste problem systematically! Extracting lithium from used batteries could be a game-changer for our EV industry. Hope they maintain quality standards in the recycling process.
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Sarah B
While the scheme looks promising on paper, I hope the environmental safeguards are strong. Recycling processes can sometimes create more pollution if not properly regulated. Need strict monitoring mechanisms.
V
Vikram M
Good to see Nagpur's JNARDDC leading this initiative. Regional development along with environmental conservation - perfect combination! 🎯 The 3 lakh ton capacity target is ambitious but achievable with proper execution.
K
Karthik V
The April 1, 2026 deadline for applications seems reasonable. Hope they conduct more workshops across different states to ensure wider participation, especially from tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

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