Red Sea and ship of state
International Business News: US-led strikes won’t stop Houthi attacks on ships. GOI should prepare for trade disruptions. Low-value/high-volume exports, critical imported parts fo Key Points
Times Of IndiaIndia, US working on tech to process critical minerals
Currently, China dominates the global concentration of mineral deposits and processing of critical minerals. Implications are, therefore, high for India, especially since it is committed to achieving 50% of cumulative installed power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030. Key Points
Economic TimesShree Cement plans to bid in India's lithium auction - source
India's Shree Cement (SHCM.NS) plans to bid for lithium mining rights under a government plan to secure critical minerals production through auctions that are expected to raise more than $5 billion. Key Points
ReutersUnion Cabinet approves royalty rates for critical and strategic minerals including lithium
The Union Cabinet has approved royalty rates for critical minerals in India. The decision comes as the government prepares to auction critical mineral mines, including those containing nickel, lithium, cobalt, platinum, and rare earths. The move is aimed at attracting investment and development in the mining sector. India's mineral royalty rates are currently among the highest in the world, which has impacted the competitiveness of the sector. The auction for lithium reserves in Jammu and Kashmir is expected to take place soon, with overseas miners expressing interest. Key Points
Economic TimesWhy we should get serious about mining critical minerals for clean energy
The mining of rare earth elements is highly competitive due to limited global reserves and growing demand from clean energy technologies and electronics. This competition exacerbates geopolitical tensions. Environmental concerns and complexities of extraction pose additional challenges to ensuring sustainable access to these resources. Key Points
Economic Times
How joining Minerals Security Partnership can help India harness critical minerals potential
India only developing nation to join MSP, the elite club set up in 2022 to secure critical mineral supply chains. Experts say this will bring international balance to group. Key Points
ThePrintIndia to conduct 1st-ever auction of critical, strategic minerals. 20 blocks up for sale Wednesday
From mobile phones to e-vehicles, all modern tech dependent on critical minerals. Bidding to likely be completed within a month. J&K's 5.9 mn tonne lithium reserve could be on auction list. Key Points
ThePrintIndia to launch first-ever auction of critical mineral blocks, including world's new fuel, from Nov 29
India is set to launch its first-ever auction of 20 critical mineral blocks on November 29. This initiative aims not only to bolster economic growth but also secure essential resources for driving the nation's green energy shift. The online auction will use a transparent two-stage ascending forward process, selecting bidders based on their quoted mineral values. Key Points
Economic TimesFrom telecom to transportation hubs: Chinese hackers spying on US critical infrastructure, says Western intelligence
Western intelligence agencies and Microsoft (MSFT.O) on Wednesday reported that a state-sponsored Chinese hacking group has been spying on a wide range of US critical infrastructure organizations. Key Points
India TodayIndia opens doors for private cos to give lithium mining ambitions a shot in the arm
The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill was passed by India's Lok Sabha to allow private companies to mine critical minerals such as lithium that were earlier restricted to state-owned enterprises. The private firms can now identify the areas they want to explore and mine as part of the proposed amendments. Key Points
Economic Times
The Psychedelic Scientist Who Sends Brains Back to Childhood
Kids soak up new skills, adults not so much. But neuroscientist Gül Dölen might have found a way—with drugs—to help grownups learn like littles. Key Points
WIREDIndia to start auction of critical mineral mines in few weeks
The Indian government is set to begin the auction of critical mineral mines in the coming weeks. The blocks that will be up for auction include nickel, lithium, cobalt, platinum, and rare earths. The tender seeking bids is expected to be released in December, with auctions starting three months later. These reforms are aimed at boosting exploration and securing critical mineral assets. State-run enterprises and energy giants are actively seeking these valuable mineral resources, with India's focus on regions like Australia and South America. Key Points
Economic TimesIndia to start lithium, other critical mineral blocks auction in next four months, Mines Secretary Vivek B
India is preparing to start the auction process for some 100 critical mineral blocks in the next four months, as part of plans to secure domestic supplies of the raw materials needed to fuel the green energy transition. The blocks are for minerals including nickel, lithium, cobalt and platinum, along with rare earths, Mines Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj said in an interview in New Delhi. Key Points
Economic TimesGovt launches auction of 20 critical minerals worth Rs 45,000 cr
New Delhi, Nov 29 (PTI) Coal and Mines Minister Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday launched the auction of 20 critical minerals worth Rs 45,000 crore. Of the 20 minerals put on sale, two are lithium blocks, Joshi said. One of the lithium blocks is in Jammu & Kashmir, while the other is in Chhattisgarh. Show Full […] Key Points
ThePrintAIIMS Delhi reverses decision to shut OPD for half-day on Ram temple consecration day
AIIMS had earlier issued a memorandum saying OPD services would remain closed until 2.30 pm on 22 January, although critical and emergency services would be operational. Key Points
ThePrint
Following lithium in J&K, large deposits of 15 rare earth elements found in Andhra Pradesh
Hyderabad-based National Geophysical Research Institute has found large deposits of 15 rare earth elements (REE) in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur district. REE of the lanthanide series are critical components in many electronic devices like cellphones, televisions, computers, automobiles used daily and in various industrial applications, the report said. Key Points
Economic TimesVeteran actor Gufi Paintal, who played the role of Shakuni Mama in 'Mahabharat', hospitalised; condition c
Veteran actor Gufi Paintal, known for his role as Shakuni Mama in 'Mahabharat', has been hospitalized for over a week due to age-related heart and kidney issues. He is said to be in critical condition at Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Andheri, Mumbai. Key Points
Economic TimesAustralia looks to India for “diversified” lithium exports market
Australia would rather have a diversified market for its lithium exports –and this includes India –than they all be cornered by the United States, Don Farrell, Australia’s Minister for Trade and Tourism said in a media interaction. Lithium is a critical metal necessary to make batteries for electric vehicles. Key Points
The HinduCabinet approves royalty rates for 12 critical minerals
With this, the exercise of rationalising royalty rates for all 24 critical and strategic minerals is complete, an official statement said. The centre had notified the royalty rate of four critical minerals - Glauconite, Potash, Molybdenum and Platinum Group of Minerals - on in March 2022. Royalty rates for Lithium, Niobium and Rare Earth Elements was approved during October 2023. Key Points
Economic TimesIndia launches first part of critical minerals auction worth $5.4 billion
By Neha Arora (Reuters) - India on Wednesday launched the first part of its critical minerals auction worth an estimated 450 billion rupees ($5.40 billion), the country's mines minister said. Mines Key Points
ThePrint
India launches first part of critical minerals auction worth $5.4 bln
India on Wednesday launched the first part of its critical minerals auction worth an estimated 450 billion rupees ($5.40 billion), the country's mines minister said. Key Points
ReutersUS, Microsoft warn Chinese hackers attacking ‘critical’ infrastructure
State-sponsored Chinese hackers have infiltrated critical U.S. infrastructure networks, Microsoft said. Key Points
The HinduGovt to revamp patenting process: Sanjeev Sanyal
Sanyal said he is personally looking at drafting the urgently needed legislative changes as what is of critical importance is reforming the very process, and also fixing the legal metrology provisions, which now is a really cumbersome process, and I am personally working on this now. He said while over the past few years the efficiency of the system at the examiner level has gone up really high, at the more critical controller level it is stuck leading to massive pendency of applications which is around 1.7 lakh now. Key Points
Economic TimesThe changing role of a chief human resources officer
The role of chief human resources officer (CHRO) is becoming increasingly crucial due to factors such as discussions on the future of work, increased technology, and hiring demands for niche skills. According to Gartner, HR leaders prioritize leader effectiveness, organisational design and change management, employee experience, recruiting, and the future of work. Key Points
Economic TimesIndia mulling to discuss mechanism with Australia under FTA for smooth supply of critical minerals
Australia produces almost half of the world's lithium. It is also the second-largest producer of cobalt and the fourth-largest producer of rare earth. Key Points
The Hindu
Predicting space storms can now be possible, reveals study
Recent advancements in space weather forecasting may soon enable scientists to predict the speed and arrival time of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), commonly... Key Points
The Tribune IndiaPitching to assist India to develop EV sector, says Australian envoy
Australia aims to be India's key supplier of critical minerals for the electric vehicle industry. The US, EU, and Japan also source minerals from Australia. The Australia-India critical Minerals Investment Partnership and ECTA support India's investments in Australian minerals projects. The two countries are also working on enhancing their defence partnership, particularly in maritime domain awareness. Key Points
Economic TimesAir India fined ₹1.10 crore by DGCA for safety violations
₹1.10 crore fine on Air India: DGCA said safety violations took place on certain long-range terrain critical routes of Air India. | Latest News India Key Points
Hindustan TimesIndians may get the highest pay hikes in Asia-Pacific region this year: Survey
In the Asia-Pacific region, Vietnam comes a far second, with a 6.7% median pay hike expected in 2024 (6.8% in 2023), followed by Indonesia with 6.5% (6.4% last year), according to the survey. Employees in Japan are likely to get the lowest increment at 2.5% (2.7% last year). Key Points
Economic Timescritical mineral, offshore mineral blocks set for auction in 2024
In a strategic move, India is set to auction critical and offshore mineral blocks, along with issuing exploration licenses in 2024, aiming to revive the mining sector and spur economic growth. Mines Minister Pralhad Joshi disclosed plans for regular critical mineral auctions, aligning with the government's focus on self-reliance. Key Points
Economic Times
8 textile parks, 129 pharma clusters mapped on PM GatiShakti National Master Plan: govt
In a recent development, the government revealed significant progress in key sectors aimed at boosting economic growth. The Ministry of Textiles disclosed that eight sanctioned PM Mitra Parks have been meticulously mapped on the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP) portal. This strategic move is expected to streamline the implementation of projects, fostering efficiency and coordination. Key Points
Economic TimesIndia to invite bids for 20 critical minerals, including lithium, in 2 weeks: Official
India plans to invite bids within two weeks for 20 crucial mineral blocks, encompassing minerals like lithium and graphite, aiming to bolster domestic resources for the green energy shift. State-run enterprises have been actively scouting the globe in search of these valuable mineral resources. Key Points
Economic TimesL&T, BHEL and so many companies a part of Chandrayaan-3; check the list here
India's moon mission, Chandrayaan-3, successfully landed near the lunar south pole, making India the fourth nation to achieve this. Private sector companies such as Larsen and Tourbo's aerospace wing, Mishra Dhatu Nigam, Bharat Heavy Electricals, MTAR Technologies, Godrej Aerospace, Ankit Aerospace, and Walchandnagar Industries played crucial roles in supplying components and materials for the mission. Key Points
Economic TimesTesla's Chinese vendors may get to Make in India
Tesla has expressed interest in bringing its own supply chain ecosystem to India. In-principle, if there is any critical parts vendor that needs to be brought, it can be considered. However, no tax incentive can be given to one company, said a person in the know. Key Points
Economic TimesIndia launches 1st auction of 20 critical mineral blocks ‘containing deposits worth Rs 45,000 crore’
Blocks up for auction contain critical minerals such as lithium, rare earth elements, and molybdenum, among others. They are located across 7 states and 1 Union territory. Key Points
ThePrint
India, US agree to strengthen cooperation in pharma, semiconductors, critical minerals
The Forum, comprising CEOs from leading Indian and US-based companies, is co-chaired by N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons, and James Taiclet, President and Chief Executive Officer, Lockheed Martin. This was the eighth meeting of the forum since its reconstitution in December 2014. It is a key advisory private sector body to India-US Commercial Dialogue, and it witnessed participation from 27 CEOs from both sides. Key Points
Economic TimesEl Niño ending; at least 60 per cent chance of La Niña developing during July-September: World Meteorological Organization
Monsoon is critical for India’s agricultural landscape, with 52 per cent of the net cultivated area relying on it. 2023/24 El Niño event, which drove... Key Points
The Tribune IndiaUnion Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan
In a significant development, the Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given its approval to the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN). This transformative scheme, unveiled by Prime Minister Modi on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas in Jharkhand's Khunti, focuses on 11 critical interventions spanning various ministries. Key Points
Economic TimesIndia-Australia discuss strategic partnership in critical minerals, trade & investments
India and Australia bolstered defence ties and strategic collaboration during their 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, focusing on critical minerals, trade, and security. Discussions addressed China's regional influence, with ministers emphasizing multifaceted relations spanning defense, trade, energy, and education. The meeting highlighted historical military cooperation, honoring fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial. Key Points
Economic Times