India Eyes Russian Siberian Rare Earth Deposits to Diversify Supply

India is actively exploring ways to secure its critical mineral supply chain by engaging with Russia-linked Siberian mineral deposits. Through state-owned miner IREL, the country is in discussions to source rare earth samples from the massive Tomtor deposit in Yakutia to reduce its strategic dependence on China.

Strategic Moves Toward the Tomtor Deposit

In a significant move to bolster its mineral security, IREL (India's Rare Earths Limited), which operates under the Department of Atomic Energy, is in talks with the Russian oil giant Rosneft. The discussions focus on acquiring samples from the Tomtor deposit in Siberia, a site that Rosneft acquired last year.

According to reports, these high-level discussions are being routed through official government channels. The proposed process involves the mineral samples being processed in Russia before being shipped to India for detailed analysis. India’s primary objective at this stage is to conduct a thorough study of the mineral composition at Tomtor—one of the world’s largest undeveloped rare earth deposits—before committing to any long-term or large-scale commercial engagement.

Reducing Dependence on China and Boosting Domestic Industry

The push for Russian minerals is part of a broader geopolitical and economic strategy to diversify supply chains away from China. Rare earth elements are indispensable components in modern technology, serving as critical inputs for electric vehicle (EV) motors, advanced defence systems, and clean energy technologies.

While India possesses the world’s third-largest rare earth reserves, estimated at approximately 7.23 million metric tons, it currently faces a significant gap in large-scale refining and magnet production. To bridge this, the Indian government has approved a ₹73 billion ($770.77 million) programme aimed at boosting domestic rare earth magnet production. The national target is to have domestic magnet production operational by 2029–30.

A Multi-Front Global Sourcing Strategy

India is not limiting its search to Russia alone. IREL is executing a multi-pronged global strategy to secure the raw materials necessary for its high-tech manufacturing ambitions. Parallel discussions are currently underway with firms in Japan and South Korea to leverage technological expertise.

Furthermore, India is evaluating various mining prospects and sourcing opportunities across the globe, including:

By diversifying its interests across different continents and geopolitical blocs, India aims to build a resilient ecosystem that can support its growing demand for high-purity separation and specialized magnet manufacturing.

Key Takeaways