NLC India's shares are in focus following its strategic move to collaborate with Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) to jointly identify, acquire, and develop critical mineral and rare earth element assets on a global scale. This partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on September 10, 2025, aligns with the Indian government's initiative to bolster the acquisition of critical mineral assets by public sector enterprises. The collaboration is expected to strengthen India's position in the global critical minerals market and enhance the country's self-reliance in strategic resources.
NLC India, traditionally known for its lignite mining and power generation operations, is strategically diversifying into the critical minerals and rare earth elements sector. This move underscores the company's ambition to expand its footprint in the rapidly growing critical minerals sector, both domestically and internationally. KABIL, a joint venture company set up by three Central Public Sector Enterprises, focuses on securing mineral assets abroad, complementing NLCIL's strategic objectives.
The demand for critical minerals is surging, driven by the growth of electric vehicles (EVs), electronics, defense, and renewable energy industries. These minerals are essential components in various technologies and are vital for a nation's economic and strategic security. India's National Critical Mineral Mission, launched in June 2025, aims to secure the country's critical mineral supply chain by ensuring mineral availability from both domestic and foreign sources. The mission also focuses on strengthening value chains by enhancing technological, regulatory, and financial ecosystems.
NLC India has been actively pursuing collaborations and projects in the critical minerals sector. In May 2025, NLCIL signed an MoU with Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) to collaborate in the field of critical minerals, focusing on the exploration, assessment, and development of mineral assets both in India and abroad. The collaboration includes joint initiatives in resource identification, acquisition of mining assets, development of processing technologies, and establishment of joint ventures.
In addition to its foray into critical minerals, NLC India has also made significant strides in expanding its renewable energy portfolio. The company successfully commissioned the first phase of its 300 MW solar power project in Rajasthan, with the commissioning certificate received on August 26, 2025, for a 52.83 MW capacity installation at Barsingsar, Bikaner. NLC India is also investing significantly to boost its power generation capacity, aiming to increase it substantially by 2030. The company is targeting a total renewable energy capacity of 4251 MW.
NLC India's financial performance has also been robust. The company reported a 42.75% year-over-year increase in net profit, rising to ₹798.00 crore. Revenue from operations also saw a healthy growth of 13.26%, reaching ₹3,826.00 crore. These developments have been viewed positively by the market, with NLC India's shares rising following the announcements.
NLC India's strategic focus on diversifying into critical minerals, expanding its renewable energy capacity, and maintaining strong financial performance positions the company for continued growth and success. The collaboration with KABIL is a significant step towards securing India's access to essential minerals and strengthening its position in the global market.
