GAIL (India) and Hindustan Copper (HCL) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 07 August, 2025, to jointly explore and develop critical mineral resources both in India and abroad.

The agreement was signed by Sanjay Agarwal, Executive Director (Business Development and Exploration & Production) of GAIL, and Binod Kumar Gupta, Executive Director (Mining)–Resource Planning of HCL, in the presence of senior leadership including RK Singhal, Director (Business Development), GAIL, and Sanjeev K Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, HCL.

This strategic collaboration is expected to bolster India’s pursuit of self-reliance in critical mineral resources vital to the country’s clean energy transition and technology advancement. It aligns with India’s broader agenda of sustainable development by reducing dependency on imports and enhancing domestic mining and mineral processing capabilities.

Described as a "forward-looking step", the partnership aims to unlock India’s untapped mineral potential and leverage overseas opportunities. Both companies reaffirmed their commitment to supporting national growth, advancing technology, and ensuring responsible and sustainable resource management.