A.P. Minister highlights strategic push to titanium, rare-earth sectors

The Andhra Pradesh government is aiming to position the State as a national leader in titanium and rare-earth elements, leveraging its vast beach-sand mineral reserves to drive industrial growth and technological advancement, Mines, Geology and Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra has said.

Addressing a workshop titled ‘Building domestic value chains in Andhra Pradesh from beach sand minerals to titanium, rare-earth elements and permanent magnets – opportunities’, here, on Wednesday, Mr. Ravindra said the State must move beyond exporting raw minerals and establish a complete value-addition chain, from refining and processing to manufacturing finished products.

Beach-sand minerals are a natural asset that could trigger an industrial transformation if harnessed effectively, he said, noting that titanium and rare-earth materials are critical for defence, aerospace, electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors.

“Future technologies are increasingly dependent on these strategic minerals,” the Minister observed and assured investors of a clear policy framework, streamlined approvals, land allocation support and robust infrastructure.

G. Satheesh Reddy, former Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), highlighted the growing global demand for titanium and rare-earth magnets in defence systems, space research, and missile technology. Strengthening domestic production, he said, would reduce dependence on imports and enhance strategic autonomy.

Principal Secretary (Mines) Mukesh Kumar Meena stressed policy stability, transparent regulation and environmental safeguards, while Industries and Commerce Secretary Yuvaraj pointed to industrial parks, port connectivity and incentives for young entrepreneurs.

APMDC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Praveen Kumar said scientific mining and efficient mineral separation would ensure long-term raw material security.

Director of Mines and Geology Chandrasekhar added that technology-driven monitoring systems are being strengthened to promote responsible mining.

The workshop featured expert discussions as part of the State’s strategy to attract investments and generate employment in high-value mineral-based industries.