The Union Cabinet on 4 November 2026 approved a Capex Support Scheme to Promote Critical Mineral Processing, with an outlay of ₹2,814 crore over five years (FY 2026-27 to 2030-31).
What the scheme does
30% capital subsidy for four plants: two lithium and two nickel
Lithium plants: minimum 30,000 tonnes each, subsidy capped at ₹500 crore each
Nickel plants: minimum 50,000 tonnes each, subsidy capped at ₹900 crore each
The plants will turn ores and intermediates into high-purity battery-grade compounds; nickel plants will also recover cobalt
Announced by Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
The bigger picture
The scheme is part of the National Critical Mineral Mission (January 2025, ₹34,300 crore over 7 years). No plants are built yet — companies must qualify first.
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