<h1>India Launches National Critical Minerals Mission with Rs 34,300 Crore Budget to Boost Green Tech Self-Reliance</h1> The government has approved the National Critical Minerals Mission with a budget of Rs 34,300 crore over seven years to boost India's self-reliance in critical minerals essential for green energy technologies. Public sector enterprises will contribute Rs 18,000 crore. The mission targets exploration and processing of minerals like copper, lithium, and cobalt, reducing import dependence and promoting overseas mineral acquisition. Initiatives include fast-tracking regulatory approvals, financial incentives, and establishing mineral processing parks. The mission will collaborate with various stakeholders and has already auctioned 24 strategic mineral blocks, with ongoing exploration projects by the Geological Survey of India.