India is accelerating exploration of new rare-earth hotspots to reduce its dependence on costly imports.

Arunachal’s Papum Pare district has been identified with strong potential for critical mineral neodymium deposits.

Neodymium is a vital element in electric vehicle motors, renewable wind turbines, and high-end electronics.

The Mines Ministry released a handbook highlighting the importance of these discoveries for future industries.

Policymakers believe this will strengthen India’s clean-energy and defense manufacturing self-reliance goals.

Domestic refining and processing capacity is being expanded to capture the full value chain.

Analysts say this could unlock major private investment in rare-earth magnet production.

India currently relies heavily on China, which dominates global supply of these minerals.

A successful program can lower costs for EV makers and renewable energy developers.

The strategic resource plan is expected to support India’s long-term growth momentum.