Jaishankar backs US-led FORGE initiative to secure critical minerals
India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar just spoke at a big international meet in Washington, DC, all about securing the supply of key minerals like lithium and cobalt—the stuff that powers everything from smartphones to electric cars.
With over 50 countries in the room, he pushed for "de-risking" these supply chains so tech and clean energy industries don't get stuck if things go wrong.
Why are critical minerals important?
These minerals are essential for gadgets, green tech, and even defense. Right now, a few countries control most of the supply—making everyone else pretty vulnerable if there's a disruption.
Jaishankar called for more global teamwork (and backed the US-led FORGE plan) to make things fairer and safer. He also highlighted India's moves—like its National Critical Minerals Mission—to build up its own resources.
Plus, he met with leaders from places like Canada and Singapore, and the ministerial aimed to diversify supply chains from concentrated sources, notably China.
Basically: who controls these minerals could shape the future of tech—and your next phone or EV might depend on it.