State-owned NLC India is in advanced discussions with a Russian public sector enterprise for equity participation in a lithium block located in Mali, Africa. The move comes as India ramps up efforts to secure a stable supply of lithium—an essential mineral for electric vehicle batteries and clean energy technologies.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the partnership is expected to support India’s strategic ambitions to source lithium from overseas while also developing domestic reserves. The growing demand for lithium in the transition to renewable energy has pushed public sector companies like NLC India to explore international collaborations.

NLC India, traditionally involved in lignite and coal mining and power generation, has diversified into renewable energy and mineral exploration. It recently secured two strategic blocks—phosphorite and limestone—in Chhattisgarh during the fifth round of mineral auctions.