In a major step toward strengthening India’s manufacturing ecosystem, the Union Cabinet has approved a ₹7,280-crore Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost the domestic production of rare-earth permanent magnets. These magnets may sound technical, but they are the backbone of modern technology — from electric vehicles to wind turbines, smartphones, defense equipment, and even satellites.
This move is part of India’s long-term mission to reduce dependency on imports, especially from China, which currently controls most of the global rare-earth supply.
Why This Scheme Matters
Rare-earth magnets are one of the most critical components used in high-performance motors and clean-energy applications. As India pushes strongly into EV adoption, renewable energy, and indigenous defense manufacturing, having a reliable supply of these magnets becomes crucial.
Until now, India has mostly imported them. This scheme aims to change that narrative.
What the Government Has Approved
Here’s what the new scheme includes:
1. Five new manufacturing units
The PLI scheme aims to set up five domestic plants with a combined capacity of 6,000 tonnes per year.
This will be a game-changer, considering India’s current production is extremely limited.
2. Lower dependence on China
With this move, India wants to become “practically self-sufficient” in permanent magnet production over the next few years.
3. Investment-friendly incentives
The government will offer financial support to manufacturers who produce magnets locally. This is expected to attract both Indian companies and global players to invest in the sector.
What This Means for India’s Future
This PLI scheme is more than just an industrial policy — it’s a strategic move.
Benefits India may see:
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Stronger EV component ecosystem
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More self-reliance in defense hardware
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Boost to electronics manufacturing
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Lower future import bills
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Global companies are likely to enter the Indian market
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New high-tech jobs and R&D opportunities
