Modi Cabinet Approves Critical Minerals Plan, 92 GWh Energy Storage Scheme And Statistical Revamp

The Union Cabinet has approved a 92 GWh grid-scale energy storage scheme, along with initiatives for critical minerals processing and a revamp of India's statistical system. Announcing the decisions, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the energy storage plan includes 30 GWh of battery storage, 60 GWh of pumped storage and 2 GWh for emerging technologies. The scheme aims to support renewable power integration and improve the utilisation of existing transmission capacity. The Cabinet also cleared a scheme to process 24 critical minerals from mined and recycled materials for use in manufacturing sectors such as semiconductors, batteries, electronics and defence. Additionally, a Rs 4,371 crore initiative will overhaul the national statistical system, focusing on better surveys, data validation and improved collection methods.