This collaboration between a technology giant and a public sector oil company is a strategic response to India's push for self-reliance in critical minerals. 

The government has launched a National Critical Mineral Mission with a substantial budget to secure domestic and international supply chains for minerals like copper and rare earth elements, which are essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy.

This partnership aims to leverage HCL's technological expertise and Oil India's operational knowledge to develop these resources, thereby reducing India's dependence on imports and positioning the country as a leader in the global clean energy mission.

The agreement, signed in New Delhi on September 19, was exchanged in the presence of HCL Chairman and Managing Director Sanjiv Kumar Singh, OIL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Ranjit Rath, and senior officials from both companies.