Why the discovery of lithium deposits in Jammu and Kashmir is a big deal

 

Lithium reserves were discovered for the first time in India, the government announced on 9 February. Lithium deposits were discovered during exploration by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Mines secretary Vivek Bhardwaj said, "Lithium deposits have been discovered for the first time and that too in Jammu and Kashmir."

"We have re-oriented our exploration efforts towards important and strategic minerals and this discovery is a testimony to our efforts," Bhardwaj said in response to a question from Mint.

lithium demand

Non-ferrous metal lithium is one of the essential elements of EV battery. India now imports most of its minerals including lithium, nickel and cobalt.

In line with earlier statements from the Ministry of Mines, the government is taking several proactive steps to obtain minerals, especially lithium, from Australia and Argentina. This is done to improve the critical mineral supply chain for new technologies.

Why is this a big deal?

The vital mineral is needed everywhere, be it for solar panels or cell phones, according to Bharadwaj, who was speaking at the 62nd Central Geological Programming Board meeting at this venue. He said that it is important for the nation to identify key minerals and then process them to become self-sufficient.


With 50% of deposits in these three South American countries—Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile—the Lithium Triangle is where most of the world's lithium reserves are located. On the other hand, China has an advantage over other countries and is in charge of 75% of the world's lithium refining.

The only option for electric cars is a lithium battery because it has a high power-to-weight ratio and can deliver a lot of power while keeping the car's curb weight low. It also works better in a variety of temperatures and is more energy efficient. As a result, it is a more secure and reliable process than others.


This is why the discovery of lithium reserves is a big deal as the mineral is a key component in India's ambition to increase EV penetration to 30% by 2030; Currently, less than 1% of all new cars sold in the country are electric vehicles.