PMO Urges Coal India to Invest in Critical Minerals in Australia, Says Outgoing CMD

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has encouraged Coal India Limited (CIL) to explore investment opportunities in Australia’s critical minerals sector, according to outgoing Chairman-cum-Managing Director P.M. prasad   . The move is part of India’s broader strategy to secure key mineral resources essential for clean energy technologies and industrial growth.

Speaking at a recent industry event, Agrawal revealed that the PMO had advised CIL to diversify beyond thermal coal and tap into strategic minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements, which are vital for electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy storage, and advanced manufacturing.

“The PMO has guided us to look into critical mineral assets abroad, particularly in resource-rich countries like Australia. Coal India is actively evaluating potential partnerships and investment avenues,” Agrawal said.

The initiative aligns with India’s National Critical Minerals Mission, which aims to reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic supply chains for materials key to the energy transition.

Analysts see the PMO’s directive as a strategic pivot for Coal India, signaling its transformation from a coal-centric enterprise to a diversified mining and resource company. Australia, with its stable mining regulations and vast reserves of lithium and rare earths, has emerged as a preferred investment destination for global miners.

Industry insiders suggest that CIL may collaborate with state-run or private mining firms in Australia to jointly develop and acquire critical mineral assets.

P.M Prasad , who recently completed his tenure as CMD, said the initiative would not only secure India’s mineral future but also position Coal India as a global player in the clean energy materials market.