The inauguration of Arunachal Pradesh’s first commercial coal mine at Namchik Namphuk marks more than an industrial milestone for the Northeast; it signals a new era of resource-based growth that Nagaland can no longer afford to watch from the sidelines. As neighbouring states begin harnessing their mineral wealth, Nagaland must urgently turn its attention to identifying, confirming, and responsibly exploiting its own reserves of critical and rare earth minerals.
Nagaland sits atop geologically promising formations that extend from the Indo-Myanmar ophiolite belt, known to host nickel, cobalt, and chromium, minerals essential for electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy systems, and defense technology. Preliminary surveys by the Geological Survey of India have also hinted at “minor strategic metals” across parts of Kiphire and Phek districts. Yet, the state remains in a stage of speculation rather than strategy. Without systematic exploration, Nagaland risks being left behind in India’s race toward mineral self-reliance and a green industrial future.
The urgency is clear. Critical minerals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements are the backbone of modern technology and clean energy. Their global demand is soaring, and India’s transition to a sustainable economy will depend on securing domestic sources. The Centre has already placed exploration of these resources in the Northeast among its top priorities. For Nagaland, this presents both an opportunity and a challenge: to build a framework that encourages scientific surveys, attracts responsible investment, and ensures community participation.
The first step must be data. Nagaland’s Department of Geology and Mining, in collaboration with national agencies such as GSI and MECL, should launch detailed geophysical mapping and sampling in identified belts. Satellite imaging and remote sensing technologies can fast-track this process. Once confirmed, the state must develop a transparent policy for exploration leases, focusing on sustainability, revenue-sharing, and local employment.
Equally important is capacity-building. Establishing a mineral resource research cell at Nagaland University or a regional institute could help train local geologists, engineers, and environmental experts. This will ensure that future mining is driven by knowledge and oversight, not exploitation.
Nagaland has watched its neighbours take decisive steps toward industrialization. The time has come to act, not recklessly but resolutely. With strategic planning and scientific rigor, the state can transform its mineral promise into lasting prosperity. The resources may lie beneath its soil, but the real treasure will be the vision and will to unearth them responsibly.
