New Delhi, April 1 The dedicated rare earth corridors proposed in Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu aim to reduce import dependence and enhance domestic capability in the strategic sector, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Wednesday.
In a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha, the minister said the corridors would focus on mining, processing, research, and manufacturing, and would help align these initiatives with national priorities, such as achieving self-reliance and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
"India's reliance on imports of key minerals used in the production of items in strategic sectors such as electronics, renewable energy, electric vehicles, and defense manufacturing can be regulated through the RE corridor by boosting local sourcing and enhancing strategic self-reliance," Singh said.
The minister also stated that a joint working group (JWG) consisting of members representing all stakeholders had been constituted for formulating guidelines (SOP) to establish dedicated rare earth corridors in the identified states.
"The JWG is expected to examine all aspects before finalizing the SOP," he added.