Driving India’s EV Revolution: Lithium Recycling as the Key to Self-Reliance
At the fourth India Battery Manufacturing & Supply Chain Summit (IBMSCS) held on January 15, 2025, Vijay Mittal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industries, stressed the critical role of lithium recycling and reuse in achieving India’s goal of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India).Lithium is an essential ingredient for the manufacturing of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, driving the shift from internal combustion engines (ICE) to electric mobility.
In 2024, over 50% of three-wheelers, about 5% of two-wheelers, and 2% of cars sold were EVs. India aims to become the world’s largest EV market by 2030. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, the pressing question remains: Is India adequately prepared with sufficient lithium resources to meet this demand?The World Economic Forum (WEF) notes that each EV battery requires around 8 kg of lithium.
Currently, China accounts for 60-70% of global lithium refining capacity and holds a significant share of lithium reserves. India imports 70-80% of its lithium and 70% of its lithium-ion batteries from China, highlighting India’s heavy reliance on its neighbour for critical resources.
To address this challenge, India should adopt a circular economy model. EV batteries, even after reaching the end of their primary life, still retain substantial energy. Instead of discarding them, these batteries can be repurposed for secondary or tertiary applications. By 2030, recycled materials will enable India to produce 60 GWh of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), reducing import dependence and opening new opportunities for local battery manufacturers.
While India has secured lithium deals with Chile, recycling lithium from used batteries presents a more immediate solution. This approach can bridge the gap until domestic deposits in Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Jammu and Kashmir are ready for commercial extraction.
Author
Aditi Kapur
I am an aspiring journalist with a strong passion for storytelling and shedding light on untold stories. I focus on topics that drive our country’s progress. I am particularly keen on deepening my knowledge of economics, climate change, and international relations.