RITES has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Hindustan Copper (HCL), a CPSE under the Ministry of Mines, to collaboratively build a rapid, reliable, and sustainable supply chain for critical minerals in India and overseas. The MoU was signed in New Delhi by RITES CMD Rahul Mithal and HCL CMD Sanjiv Kumar Singh, in the presence of Minister of Mines G Kishan Reddy.

The strategic partnership aims to support India’s mineral security and boost sustainable economic growth by focusing on the exploration, extraction, refining, and production of essential minerals. Both companies will leverage their technical and financial expertise to participate in mineral block auctions and develop mining infrastructure.

Under the agreement, RITES will provide comprehensive consultancy and logistics support to HCL’s mining operations, including project planning, multimodal transport solutions, infrastructure development, and rolling stock assistance. The collaboration intends to establish a self-reliant, integrated mineral value chain that aligns with India's broader critical mineral strategy and bolsters the country’s economic resilience.