Keshav Chandra Takes Over as Mines Secretary

Keshav Chandra, a 1995-batch IAS officer, has taken over as the Mines Secretary in India.

He replaces Piyush Goyal, who has been appointed as the Secretary General of the NHRC.

Before this role, Chandra served as the chairperson of the New Delhi Municipal Council.

Soon after taking charge, he reviewed key initiatives of the mines ministry, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts.

The ministry is focusing on securing critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are essential for electric vehicles, renewables, and high-tech industries.

India currently relies heavily on imports for these minerals, which exposes the industry to supply disruptions and price volatility.

The ministry is promoting domestic exploration and private participation to identify more reserves and deepen the pipeline of mineral assets.