Why in News? 

With a budget of ₹16,300 crore, the Union Cabinet has launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM) to secure the supply of key minerals needed for cutting-edge technologies and defence production. 

 National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM) 

• Approval & Budget: The Union Cabinet approved the National Critical Mineral Mission with a budget of ₹16,300 crore. 
•  Objective: To secure India’s supply of critical minerals necessary for advanced technologies like electric vehicles, electronics, semiconductors, and defense production. 
•  Significance:  This mission is expected to boost Make in India, promoting indigenous production and sustainable mineral exploration. 
•  Reason for Launch: Growing demand for lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earth elements, and other strategic minerals to support India’s renewable energy goals and self-reliant defense sector. 
•  Global Impact: Helps India reduce dependence on imports and strengthens strategic partnerships with global suppliers. 
•  Sectors Benefiting: Electric vehicles, battery storage, electronics, defense, and space technology.