India is intensifying its efforts to secure critical minerals vital for its clean energy future, with state-owned NLC India Ltd nearing a strategic deal to access lithium reserves in Africa. The company is reportedly in advanced negotiations for equity participation in a lithium block located in Mali, West Africa, through a collaboration with a Russian government-owned entity.

Lithium, often dubbed “white gold,” is essential for manufacturing electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy storage technologies. As India accelerates its transition to green energy and aims to meet its EV targets, ensuring a consistent supply of this key mineral has become a national priority.

Traditionally focused on lignite and coal mining, as well as power generation, NLC India has been steadily diversifying its portfolio. The company has recently made inroads into renewable energy and mineral exploration, having secured phosphorite and limestone blocks in Chhattisgarh during India’s fifth round of mining auctions.

The strategic shift is already showing financial promise. In the quarter ending March 2025, NLC India posted a consolidated profit of ₹468.46 crore, marking a more than fourfold increase from ₹113.95 crore in the same period last year.

As India races to build a self-reliant and sustainable energy ecosystem, partnerships like this potential lithium deal in Mali could play a crucial role in bolstering the nation’s clean energy ambitions.