In a major step towards strengthening India’s self-reliance in critical minerals, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh has signed a strategic partnership with Oil India Limited (OIL) for the exploration and development of vital mineral resources in the PHOP Block. The collaboration is expected to play a key role in supporting India’s clean energy transition and promoting industrial growth through a sustainable supply of essential raw materials. The agreement was spearheaded by Arunachal Pradesh’s Minister for Science & Technology, Dasanglu Pul, in coordination with the Centre for Earth Sciences & Himalayan Studies (CESHS).
The initiative reflects a collective effort to advance scientific research, technological innovation, and sustainable mineral exploration in the state’s resource-rich terrain. Speaking at the signing event, Minister Dasanglu Pul said the collaboration is aligned with the Central Government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision of creating a strong domestic value chain for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements. “This partnership will help reduce India’s dependence on mineral imports and enable us to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s clean energy goals,” she stated.
The project aims to employ advanced geoscientific tools and environmentally responsible methods for exploration. It will also emphasize community engagement and ecological preservation while ensuring that economic benefits reach local populations.
