New Delhi: In a landmark move towards India’s strategic self-reliance and environmental sustainability, NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has entered into a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). This collaboration will launch a pilot project at Neyveli to extract Rare Earth Elements (REEs) from fly ash, a by-product of thermal power generation.
The partnership marks a significant step in advancing India’s circular economy and reducing dependency on imported critical minerals vital for sectors such as healthcare, clean energy, electronics, defence, and high-tech manufacturing.
Strategic Importance of the Project
Rare Earth Elements are essential components in renewable energy technologies, medical equipment, and defence systems. Currently, global REE supply chains are dominated by few countries, making India’s indigenous extraction capability crucial for economic and national security.
The pilot plant at Neyveli, developed with BARC’s technical expertise, will demonstrate innovative extraction technologies that transform fly ash — traditionally considered a waste product — into a valuable resource.
Leadership Remarks
Speaking on the occasion, Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, Chairman & Managing Director of NLCIL, stated:
“Our partnership with BARC is a major step towards sustainable resource use, circular economy, and India’s self-reliance in critical minerals.”
Hon’ble Minister of Coal G. Kishan Reddy also lauded the initiative via social media, calling it a milestone for India’s strategic mineral security and environmental stewardship.
Alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat Vision
This pioneering project exemplifies NLCIL’s commitment to innovation-led industrial growth aligned with environmental responsibility. By turning fly ash into a source of high-value materials, NLCIL reinforces the Government of India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, fostering sustainable development and reducing import reliance.
read also: NLC India Powers Ahead: Adds 1660 MW Thermal Capacity Through NTPL and NUPPL Ventures
About NLCIL
NLC India Limited (NLCIL), a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Coal, is a leading mining and power generation company. With a growing footprint in renewable energy and critical minerals, NLCIL is playing a key role in India’s energy diversification and sustainable resource development.
