New Delhi, Jan. 22 -- Nalco recently grabbed headlines for its entry into critical minerals and rare-earth elements (REEs). Chairman and managing director Brijendra Pratap Singh mentioned on 19 January that the company is open to exploring the domestic critical minerals industry, and that due diligence on auctions for REEs, and chromite and magnesium blocks is underway.

Following China's repeated politically-motivated clampdowns on REEs used in magnets, the world's electric vehicle, clean energy, electronics, and defence ambitions have faced abrupt halts and delays.

Many economies, including India, have been justifiably exploring alternative sources. Nalco's potential inroads into the industry will deepen strategic alignment with nation...