NLC India Engaged in Advanced Negotiations with Russian Firm for Lithium Procurement

NLC India Ltd, a government-owned enterprise traditionally focused on lignite mining, is taking a strategic leap into critical minerals. The company is in the final stages of talks with a state-backed Russian firm to acquire equity in a lithium mining project based in Mali, Africa. This diversification aligns with India's growing push towards clean energy and self-reliant electric vehicle battery production.

NLC India Advances Lithium Acquisition Steps in Africa

NLC India is actively negotiating an equity partnership with a Russian government-owned firm to tap into lithium reserves in Mali. With the surging domestic demand for lithium, driven by the booming electric vehicle (EV) sector, this international collaboration aims to secure a steady supply of the critical mineral. The move marks a significant departure from NLC’s traditional energy ventures, reflecting India’s broader strategy to bolster its energy security through overseas critical mineral assets.

Driving Clean Energy Through Strategic Diversification

The initiative supports India’s vision of reducing import dependency for materials essential to EV production and renewable power storage. Lithium, being indispensable in the battery ecosystem, is now a vital component in national energy planning. By partnering with Russia for a share in Mali’s lithium resources, NLC enhances its global footprint and contributes to India’s clean energy ambitions.

Beyond Lignite: NLC’s Strategic Expansion Moves

Besides its latest lithium foray, NLC India recently won two strategic mineral blocks in Chhattisgarh during the fifth phase of national auctions. These blocks, focusing on phosphorite and limestone, scale up their diversification into non-fossil energy resources and mineral assets. The company also reported a consolidated profit rise to ₹468.46 crore in Q4 FY25 from ₹113.95 crore the previous year.

Read More: India's Li-ion Battery Demand Projected to Reach 115 GWh by 2030, Says ICEA!

NLC India Share Price Performance

On July 14, 2025, NLC India share price opened at ₹230.80 on NSE, above the previous close of ₹227.11. During the day, it surged to ₹230.80 and dipped to ₹227.91. The stock is trading at ₹228.57 as of 9:38 AM. The stock registered a gain of 0.64%.

Over the past week, it has moved up by 1.55%, over the past month, it has declined by 1.06%, and over the past 3 months, it has declined by 4.34%.

Conclusion

NLC India’s progress in lithium sourcing via Mali indicates a pivotal transition from conventional energy to critical mineral acquisition. This move not only strengthens its portfolio globally but also contributes directly to India’s EV manufacturing capabilities and clean energy targets.

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