New Delhi, May 2 -- Anil Agarwal, chairman of the Vedanta Group, recently referred to copper as the "new super metal."

There are good reasons for it. Copper is integral to the world's energy transition and digital transformation. From electric vehicles and solar panels to artificial intelligence (AI) data centres and high-voltage transmission lines, copper is at the heart of every green and digital transition the world is aiming for.

Its conductivity, durability and recyclability make it critical to emerging technologies that are reshaping economies.

Yet, India, despite being rich in copper reserves, is at risk of missing a leadership opportunity.

Demand is rising, but supply isn't: According to BHP, one of the world's largest mining ...