Nalco Eyes to Enter Rare Earths, Magnesium, Chromite Mining Amid Critical Minerals Push

National Aluminium Company Ltd (Nalco), a public sector unit, is planning to expand operations beyond bauxite and aluminium into the mining of rare earth elements (REEs), magnesium and chromite, aligning with India’s critical minerals initiative. 

Nalco Initiates Due Diligence for Rare Earth and Critical Mineral Blocks 

As per PTI report, on January 19, 2026, Nalco’s Chairman-cum-Managing Director Brijendra Pratap Singh confirmed that the company’s bid advisor has commenced an evaluation of domestic mining blocks of REEs, magnesium, and chromite.  

The objective is to assess commercial viability, acquisition pricing and participation strategy in upcoming auctions. 

This expansion aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in critical minerals essential for electronics, renewable energy systems and defence technologies. REEs are used in wind turbine magnets, missile systems, and EV motors, where China currently controls 80% of global supply. 

Engagement Through KABIL for Overseas Lithium Acquisition 

Beyond domestic mining efforts, Nalco is also involved through Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL), a joint venture with Hindustan Copper and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd, in exploring a stake acquisition in an operational lithium mine in Australia.  

Lithium, crucial for clean energy storage and electric vehicles, has seen rising demand and limited global supply. 

Officials stated that the due diligence for the Australian acquisition is in progress, with Nalco contemplating raising its stake in KABIL from 40% to 50% to support such overseas investments. 

Read More: GMDC, NLC India, and NALCO Share Price in Focus After India Joins US-Led Pax Silica Initiative! 

Operational and Infrastructure Expansion Plans 

According to the CMD, Nalco aims to commission its fifth stream refinery by June 2026. The company is also working towards starting operations at the Pottangi bauxite mines during the same period. Further expansion includes adding 0.5 million tonne smelter capacity and a 1,080 MW power plant. 

The company’s approach focuses on increasing production volumes, reducing costs, and improving customer satisfaction through quality and distribution standards. 

National Aluminium Share Price Performance 

As of January 19, 2026, at 10:52 AM, National Aluminium share price on NSE was trading at ₹361.80 up by 0.06% from the previous closing price. 

Conclusion 

Nalco’s diversification into critical minerals demonstrates a strategic shift in response to India’s import dependency and resource security needs. The company is moving with due diligence in both domestic and international projects to support the country's growing requirements for clean energy and industrial inputs. 

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