Union Minister Reddy releases Copper Vision Document aimed to meet growing demand

New Delhi, Jul 4 (PTI) Union Minister G Kishan Reddy on Friday released the Copper Vision Document which provides a long-term strategy to meet the growing domestic demand for the metal.

The document anticipates a sixfold increase in copper demand by 2047 and outlines plans to add 5 million tonne per annum of smelting and refining capacity by 2030, an official statement said.

It focuses on scaling up secondary refining, enhancing domestic recycling, and reducing dependence on open-market imports by securing overseas mineral assets through global partnerships.

In his address, the coal and mines minister emphasised copper's vital contribution to India’s energy transition, infrastructure growth, and green technologies such as electric vehicles and solar power.

He stated that the vision document provides a long-term strategy to meet growing domestic demand while ensuring raw material security.

The minister launched the document at the International Conference on Sustainable and Responsible Mining through Best Mine Closure Practices organised by the Indian National Committee of the World Mining Congress in Hyderabad.

Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, the Copper Vision Document is a step forward in creating a sustainable, resilient, and future-ready copper ecosystem for the nation, the ministry said. PTI ABI ANU