The Geological Survey of India discovered 6 million tons of lithium reserves in the Himalayan Jammu and Kashmir region–the first time significant deposits of the metal have been detected in the country.
Reserves of lithium are rare, with only 98 million tons known to exist globally. India discovery exceeds 5 percent of the total, and could mark new era for the country’s expanding electric vehicle industry.
Lithium is a soft, silvery-white non-ferrous metal. It is an extremely reactive, alkaline, and light metal that is used in a wide variety of applications, including the manufacturing of ceramics and glassware, greases, medicinal compounds, air conditioners, and aluminum. However, its primary use is in lithium-ion batteries, which are used in EVs, laptops, mobile phones, and other electronic devices.
The development of domestic lithium reserves could contribute to India’s efforts to transition to a more sustainable economy. Lithium-ion batteries are a key component of renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind power, which are essential for the transition to clean energy. By developing its domestic reserves, India could support the growth of renewable energy systems and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
