Modi pushes for Australia-India nuclear and critical minerals deal to boost clean energy supply chains

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for deeper cooperation with Australia on nuclear energy and critical minerals, framing it as a historic opportunity. The partnership would focus on securing supply chains for minerals essential to batteries, solar panels, and other clean energy technologies, while also exploring civil nuclear collaboration. This aligns with India's goal to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuel imports. For the carbon and climate community, the critical minerals angle is the most concrete part. Australia holds significant reserves of lithium, cobalt, and rare earths that India needs for its renewable energy and electric vehicle targets. The nuclear piece is more aspirational given India's domestic regulatory and liability hurdles. If this cooperation leads to actual mining and processing agreements, it could shorten supply chains for clean tech manufacturing outside of China. Worth watching for follow-up on specific deals rather than the headline.