India and the European Union have jointly launched an initiative worth 15.2 million euros (around Rs 169 crore) to develop advanced recycling technologies for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, aiming to strengthen critical mineral supply chains and promote a circular economy.
The initiative has been introduced under the India–EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies, according to a release issued by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, The Economic Times reported.
The programme is expected to support research and innovation in sustainable battery recycling methods, helping both sides reduce dependence on raw material imports while addressing environmental concerns linked to battery waste.
Officials said the collaboration will bring together researchers, industries, and policymakers from India and the EU to accelerate the development of efficient and scalable recycling solutions. The focus will be on recovering valuable materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel from used batteries, which are critical for the growing EV sector.
The move comes as both India and the EU look to secure reliable access to critical minerals amid rising global demand driven by clean energy transitions. Strengthening recycling capabilities is also seen as a key step towards reducing supply chain vulnerabilities and enhancing resource efficiency.
The initiative is expected to contribute to long-term sustainability goals by promoting innovation, reducing environmental impact, and supporting the expansion of EV ecosystems in both regions.
