Davos, Switzerland: Amid rising global concerns over energy security, clean energy, and supply chain risks, Jharkhand has presented itself as a responsible global center for critical minerals. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the state showcased its long-term strategy and visionary approach at a high-level Global Roundtable held at the India Pavilion during the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026.
Global Roundtable Highlights Jharkhand’s Critical Minerals Strategy
The session, titled “Jharkhand’s Critical Minerals Opportunity: From Geology to Value Creation,” brought together policymakers, researchers, international industry leaders, investors, and technology experts. Discussions focused on how mineral-rich regions can move beyond traditional mining economies to become processing, manufacturing, and technology-driven industrial hubs.
Jharkhand’s Role in the Global Critical Minerals Ecosystem
Secretary Arwa Rajkamal, part of the official Jharkhand delegation, highlighted that critical minerals are no longer just industrial resources but pillars of geo-economic and geopolitical security. He noted that 20 out of 24 critical minerals identified by the Government of India are available in Jharkhand, placing the state at the center of India’s clean energy and technology transition goals.
Shifting from Extraction to Value Creation
Jayant Sinha, Chairman of Eversource Capital and former Union Minister of State for Finance, emphasized that mineral-rich states must prioritize local processing, value addition, and industrial use, rather than merely exporting raw resources. This approach, he said, creates employment opportunities and long-term economic resilience.
Building Next-Generation Industrial Ecosystem
Varun Ranjan, Managing Director of JIADA (Jharkhand Industrial Area Development Authority), explained that under Jharkhand Chief Minister Vision 2050, the state is transitioning from an extraction-based economy to a value-based industrial ecosystem. Key focus areas include:
- Mineral processing
- Electric vehicle components
- Advanced materials
- Battery technology
- Clean energy solutions
Investment and Global Partnerships
Jharkhand’s Mining Director, Rahul Sinha, reiterated the state’s commitment to creating a transparent, investment-friendly ecosystem and invited partnerships from domestic and international public and private sectors.
Emphasis on Skills, Research, and Institutional Capacity
Dr. Mukesh Kumar, Director of the Cambridge University Global Supply Chain Observatory, highlighted that resource availability alone is insufficient. Specialized skill development, research collaboration, and strong institutional capacities are essential for Jharkhand to compete globally in critical minerals.
Sustainable Mining and Human Resource Development
Experts at the meeting stressed that sustainable mining practices and skilled human resources form the foundation of long-term success. Strengthening universities, research institutions, and government training programs was identified as a priority.
ESG, Investment Confidence, and Supply Chain Risks
Lucas from DMT Group noted that investment decisions depend on regulatory clarity, risk mitigation, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards, which now form the cornerstone of investor confidence.
Ben from Sign Resources Group highlighted the risks of geographic concentration in global critical mineral supply and the importance of diversification.
India-Germany-EU Collaboration Opportunities
German representative Martin pointed out that India, Germany, and the EU remain heavily dependent on external suppliers for critical raw materials, which poses long-term vulnerabilities. He emphasized technical collaboration and state-level partnerships, identifying Jharkhand as a key partner.
Policy Framework for Global Competitiveness
Finance Secretary Prashant Kumar underscored the need for a robust and competitive policy framework for exploration, mining, and processing of critical minerals to strengthen Jharkhand’s position in the global value chain.
Jharkhand Showcases Its Capabilities
The event featured a special screening titled “Critical Minerals in Jharkhand: Landscape and Opportunities” and the launch of a coffee table book on critical minerals, highlighting Jharkhand’s resource potential, policy vision, and human capital.
Path Forward: Jharkhand as a Responsible Global Center
The roundtable concluded with a clear message: Jharkhand has the resources, policy vision, skilled workforce, and global partnerships to emerge as a long-term, responsible, and sustainable global hub for critical minerals.
