India pushes mica industry for critical mineral status to curb Chinese dominance

Mica, a mineral used extensively in electronics, cosmetics and automotive paints, has long been imported in large volumes from China, making India vulnerable to supply disruptions. Industry associations argue that the country's own mica reserves, primarily in Jharkhand and Rajasthan, remain underutilised despite growing domestic demand.

To address this strategic gap, leading Indian mica producers have approached the Ministry of Mines, requesting that mica be listed under the government's critical minerals framework. Such a designation would unlock incentives, streamline export‑import licensing and encourage private investment in mining and processing infrastructure.

Officials from the Ministry of Mines indicated that the proposal is under review and that a formal assessment of mica's strategic importance will be conducted. If approved, the move could reduce India's dependence on Chinese mica, boost local employment and enhance the nation's position in global supply chains.