The collaboration will also explore similar opportunities across other mining and exploration projects of NLCIL | Photo Credit: iStockphoto

NLC India Ltd (NLCIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CSIR-CECRI), Karaikudi to foster collaboration in the field of critical and strategic minerals beneficiation and extraction technologies. 

The MoU was signed by IS Jasper Rose, Executive Director (Mines & Land), NLCIL, and K Ramesha, Director, CSIR-CECRI, in the presence of Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, Chairman and Managing Director, NLC India Ltd.

Under the MoU, detailed studies will be undertaken on overburden materials and tailings generated from NLCIL’s Neyveli Mines to assess the potential for extraction and recovery of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) and other trace elements. 

The collaboration will also explore similar opportunities across other mining and exploration projects of NLCIL, with the objective of developing sustainable and economically viable technologies for resource recovery from secondary sources. 

Motupalli emphasised that the collaboration between NLCIL and CSIR-CECRI would strengthen research efforts towards the beneficiation and extraction of REEs and other critical minerals associated with overburden, tailings, and other secondary resources. 

K Ramesha, Director, CSIR-CECRI, highlighted this strategic partnership would lead to meaningful research outcomes and technological advancements in the field of critical and strategic minerals, thereby supporting India’s efforts towards resource security and self-reliance in critical mineral supply chains. 

Published on June 11, 2026