Kishan Reddy launches India-UK Critical Minerals Observatory

Hyderabad: Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy launched the India-UK Critical Minerals Observatory in New Delhi on Thursday to strengthen cooperation on critical mineral security and resilient global supply chains.

United Kingdom Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Yvette Cooper joined the inauguration of the initiative.

The India-UK Critical Minerals Observatory is a joint initiative of TEXMiN, Indian Institute of Technology (ISM) Dhanbad and the University of Cambridge.

The platform aims to improve collaboration between India and the United Kingdom in monitoring and securing critical mineral supply chains.

India-UK Critical Minerals Observatory to enhance supply chain intelligence

Addressing the gathering, Kishan Reddy said critical minerals play a vital role in clean energy technologies, electric mobility, advanced manufacturing and strategic sectors.

He stated that the India-UK Critical Minerals Observatory would strengthen India’s supply chain intelligence and support the objectives of the National Critical Mineral Mission.

According to the Minister, reliable access to critical minerals remains essential for technological advancement and industrial growth.

Furthermore, he said the initiative would help policymakers and industry stakeholders make informed decisions on mineral security.

The initiative originated during the bilateral engagement between the Prime Ministers of India and the United Kingdom in October 2025.

Subsequently, both sides formalised the collaboration through a research agreement signed in March 2026.

The Observatory will provide real-time monitoring of global critical mineral supply chains.

In addition, it will identify supply risks and generate market intelligence for policymakers, researchers and industry participants.

Yvette Cooper said stronger cooperation and information-sharing on critical minerals would promote economic growth, supply chain security and sustainable development in both countries.

She added that collaborative efforts would help address emerging challenges in global mineral supply networks.