India's first exploration licence for rare earth minerals has been awarded in Rajasthan, covering blocks in Balotra and Jodhpur districts. It was granted to the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI) under the national critical minerals framework.
Geological studies show Lanthanum, Cerium, Praseodymium and Neodymium in the blocks. Rare earth elements are used in electric vehicles, renewable energy, defence, aerospace, semiconductors, electronics and telecommunications.