Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with NMDC to collaborate in the rare earth elements (REE) sector, on March 16, 2026. 

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The agreement aims to develop an integrated rare earth value chain in Gujarat, covering exploration, mining, beneficiation, processing and downstream applications. The focus will be on GMDC’s Ambadungar rare earth deposit to support India’s critical minerals push.

Rare earth elements can be extracted from the byproduct of bauxite “red mud” through hydrometallurgical techniques such as acid leaching, or pyrometallurgical methods like smelting.  

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Under the MoU, the two companies will assess technical aspects, project development and potential business models for rare earth resources. The partnership will also involve technical evaluation and knowledge sharing.

GMDC said the initiative is part of its Ambadungar roadmap, including resource utilisation, indigenous processing and pilot-scale technology validation.

Rare earth elements are key inputs in clean energy, advanced manufacturing and strategic sectors. The move aligns with efforts to strengthen domestic supply chains and reduce import dependence.

According to GMDC Managing Director Roopwant Singh, the collaboration combines the technological know-how of both organisations to investigate prospects in the rare earth industry.

"The collaboration with NMDC brings together complementary institutional strengths and technical expertise to explore opportunities in the rare earth sector. Through this initiative, GMDC aims to advance the development of a sustainable earth value chain while contributing to India's critical mineral resilience and industrial progress," Singh said.

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