India and Argentina have forged a landmark agreement, granting an Indian company exclusive rights to explore lithium across five blocks in the South American nation. Should lithium deposits be unearthed within the designated 15,703-hectare area, India will be able to launch full-scale commercial exploitation and production. This marks a pivotal step in India’s quest to diversify its strategic minerals supply chain and gain access to technical expertise in this crucial field. “This agreement is a historic moment for both India and Argentina,” declared Pralhad Joshi, India’s Coal Minister. He emphasized the deal’s significance in “creating a sustainable and diversified supply chain of essential minerals” for various Indian industries.
