New Delhi, May 13 -- Industry experts on Wednesday stressed the urgent need for India to strengthen raw material security for critical minerals, metals, coal and scrap, saying these resources are essential for achieving the country's manufacturing, infrastructure and clean energy ambitions.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the National Conclave on Raw Material Securitization for Metals & Minerals, themed 'Advancing Self-Reliance, Resilience & Resource Security', experts highlighted that India's growth plans, including electric vehicles, semiconductors, renewable energy and steel production expansion, depend heavily on reliable access to raw materials.

Ranjeet Mehta, CEO and Secretary General of PHDCCI, said critical minerals have be...