The Government of India has secured a 9,000 sq. km block in Zambia for copper and cobalt exploration, led by the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Zambia, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is a major global copper producer. Rising demand for copper is driven by electric vehicles, clean energy technologies, infrastructure, and projected shortages by 2035. India faces a decline in copper production, primarily through Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL).
The Government of India has successfully secured a 9,000 square kilometer block in Zambia, designated for the exploration of copper and cobalt, which represents a strategic initiative in obtaining vital minerals. This exploration project is spearheaded by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and aims to bolster India’s clean energy and electric vehicle (EV) battery sectors.
Zambia is situated as a landlocked country in Southern Africa, bordered by Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia. The country’s geographic features include significant waterways such as the Zambezi, Kafue, and Luangwa rivers, and mountainous regions such as the Nyika Plateau and Mafinga Hills. Zambia is notably rich in key minerals including copper, cobalt, nickel, and uranium.
India’s newly acquired copper exploration block is located in the Northwestern Province, an area recognized for its abundant copper reserves. Notably, Zambia ranks as the seventh-largest copper producer in the world, while Chile holds the record as the largest producer globally.
The demand for copper is surging due to the growth of electric vehicle batteries and clean energy technologies, necessitating large quantities of this mineral. Furthermore, infrastructure development, defense sectors, and advanced electronics continue to augment global demand. A projected supply shortage by the year 2035 is prompting nations to secure their copper reserves proactively.
Currently, India’s copper production has experienced an 8% decline since the 2018-19 period. Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL) stands as the sole government-owned copper producer in the country. The key copper mines in India include Malanjkhand, known as the largest open-pit copper mine, Khetri, a significant underground copper mine, and the Singhbhum Belt, one of the oldest copper-producing regions.
In summary, India’s acquisition of a vast block in Zambia for copper exploration reflects a crucial step in securing essential minerals for energy technologies. Zambia’s geographical and mineral wealth positions it as a key player in the global copper market, essential for meeting rising demands in various sectors. With projected shortages on the horizon, countries are prioritizing the acquisition of copper resources, underlining the significance of this strategic initiative.
Original Source: www.insightsonindia.com