India has introduced a far-reaching National Battery Recycling Policy aimed at securing critical mineral supplies and supporting the country’s rapidly expanding electric vehicle and energy storage ecosystem. The policy addresses growing concerns over import dependence for lithium, cobalt, nickel, and other key materials essential for batteries.
Under the new framework, manufacturers and importers will be required to take responsibility for the collection, recycling, and safe disposal of used batteries. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) norms mandate minimum recycling targets, while compliance-linked incentives encourage companies to invest in advanced recovery technologies. The government will also offer fiscal support for setting up high-efficiency recycling plants capable of extracting valuable materials at scale.
Dedicated battery recycling clusters are planned near major EV manufacturing and consumption hubs. These clusters will integrate logistics, processing facilities, and testing labs to reduce costs and improve material recovery rates. Officials emphasized that localizing recycling infrastructure will help stabilize battery prices and reduce exposure to global supply shocks.
Beyond EVs, the policy also covers stationary energy storage systems used in renewable power projects. As solar and wind capacity expands, end-of-life battery management is viewed as critical to maintaining the sustainability of India’s clean energy transition.
Skill development is another key pillar. Specialized training programs will be introduced to build expertise in battery chemistry, recycling engineering, and environmental safety. Research grants will support innovation in next-generation recycling techniques and alternative battery materials.By creating a circular economy around energy storage, India aims to reduce resource vulnerability, strengthen domestic manufacturing, and align clean mobility growth with environmental responsibility.
