From Green Revolution to Resource Revolution India to target mineral self-reliance, says Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal

In a recent social media post, Anil Agarwal, Chairman, Vedanta Group emphasized that exploration of India’s minerals and hydrocarbons must become a national priority, calling for a “below-the-ground revolution” to reduce import dependence, unlock the country’s vast geological potential, and create large-scale employment opportunities.

The world knows how India created a Jan Aandolan in our agriculture. Even as our population grew, we were able to achieve self-sufficiency in food.

The Green Revolution happened because all of India joined together. The time has come to create a revolution for below-the-ground so that we can be free from imports.

This is an area of such huge potential that I estimate that 30%-40% of our population, especially young people, should find it very attractive to develop their careers and create livelihoods. India has one of the best geologies in the world.

Of course, as we did for our agriculture in the start, the government will have to be very flexible except on matters related to the environment. There can no compromise on that. Exploration should become a buzzword and attract all kinds of individuals, startups, small companies, large companies – bring everyone together in this national mission.

We have to be disruptive below the ground. We have to show to the world. We should let go of old mindsets such as fixed term leases for mines (50 years at present). Like elsewhere in the world, it should be for life of mine. We should think beyond auctions. Let’s not be bound by any one process. The most important thing is the outcome – massively increased production.

All of this has been implemented successfully elsewhere in the world. We have a very advantageous position. Because of today’s advanced technology, our young population, our entrepreneurs and our positive government, we will be fastest to develop below-the-ground potential.

At present, 50% of our imports are on account of below-the-ground resources. This is our hard-earned money which is going to create jobs in other countries. Let us use it for our own development.

A revolution below the ground will completely transform our country. Let’s come together in mission mode.