India is advancing its self-reliance in rare earth elements, essential for high-tech applications, including defense and renewable energy, by granting import licenses to firms amid growing demand. The Union Cabinet has approved the National Critical Mineral Mission, allocating ₹500 crore for mineral processing parks, which aim to attract private investment and develop indigenous processing technologies. With a focus on strategic stockpiling and public-private partnerships, India is addressing supply chain vulnerabilities and reducing foreign dependencies. Ongoing auctions of critical mineral blocks demonstrate the government’s commitment to enhancing domestic capabilities and positioning India as a key player in the global critical minerals value chain, underscoring the strategic importance of these initiatives for national security and economic resilience.