The central government has proposed dedicated rare earth (RE) corridors in Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic capability in a strategic mineral sector. The proposal, described by the Union Minister Jitendra Singh in a written reply to a Lok Sabha question, aims to coordinate activity across the identified states. The corridors are intended to create regional concentrations of activity that can supply critical inputs to manufacturing chains.

The RE corridors will focus on mining, processing, research and manufacturing and seek to align these initiatives with national priorities such as achieving strategic self-reliance and reaching net-zero emissions by 2070. Officials expect the approach to encourage local sourcing and to regulate the country s reliance on imported materials used in electronics, renewable energy, electric vehicles and defence sectors. Emphasis will be placed on integrating value chains and reducing logistical barriers.

A joint working group (JWG) comprising representatives of central and state bodies, industry participants and researchers has been constituted to formulate standard operating procedures for the corridors. The JWG is tasked with examining technical, environmental and policy aspects before finalising the guidelines to establish the RE corridors. Stakeholders will be invited to contribute to operational frameworks designed to balance extraction with downstream processing and research capabilities.

Authorities project that the corridors will support the development of domestic processing plants, boost manufacturing of strategic components and foster research partnerships with academic institutions. The proposal is expected to underpin efforts to build resilient supply chains and enhance strategic autonomy in sectors reliant on rare earth elements. The account was provided by Press Trust of India and the headline and picture were reworked by the hosting publication.