CIL Delegation Explores Lithium, Copper Opportunities in Chile

New Delhi, February 19, 2026 — A high-level delegation from Coal India Limited (CIL) visited Chile as part of the company’s strategic push toward business diversification and expansion into critical minerals.

The visit reflects CIL’s broader objective to reduce long-term dependence on thermal coal and align with India’s growing demand for energy transition materials such as lithium and copper.

High-Level Meetings in Santiago

The delegation included Mukesh Agrawal, Director (Finance); Asheesh Kumar, Director (Business Development); Rajiva Kumar Singh, Executive Director (Exploration); and C.S. Singh, General Manager (Business Development – Critical Minerals), along with a consultant.

During the visit, the team met senior Chilean officials and key stakeholders in the mining sector. Discussions were held with India’s Ambassador to Chile, Abhilasha Joshi, as well as Chile’s Minister of Mines, Minister of Economic Affairs & Energy, officials from the Ministry of External Affairs, and representatives of major mining entities including:

• CODELCO

• ENAMI

• Wealth Minerals Ltd

Focus on Lithium and Copper

The primary focus of the engagement was to explore potential collaboration opportunities in lithium, copper, and other critical minerals. These minerals are considered essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and advanced manufacturing.

Chile is among the world’s leading producers of copper and holds significant lithium reserves, making it a strategic destination for Indian companies looking to secure long-term mineral supplies.

CIL’s delegation reportedly sought support in understanding regulatory frameworks and facilitating processes related to exploration and mining partnerships.

Strategic Diversification Drive

Coal India’s outreach aligns with India’s broader push to secure overseas critical mineral assets to support its clean energy transition and industrial growth plans. As global competition intensifies for lithium and other battery materials, securing stable supply chains has become a strategic priority.

The Chile visit signals CIL’s intent to position itself beyond conventional coal operations and expand into future-facing mineral segments.