Bhubneswar: Lithium-ion battery recycler NavPrakriti has outlined a major expansion plan with an investment of over Rs 100 crore to build a critical minerals refining facility in Odisha, strengthening India’s push towards battery recycling and resource security.
The proposed unit, scheduled to be operational by FY 2028-29, will focus on recovering key minerals from used batteries as part of a broader effort to support the country’s circular economy and reduce import dependence, according to the company.
The firm has been recognised as eligible under the National Critical Mineral Mission for extraction activities involving lithium, cobalt, and nickel, positioning it within India’s strategic push to secure essential battery materials domestically.
The upcoming Odisha plant is designed to process around 5,000 metric tonnes per annum of end-of-life batteries, with an emphasis on high-purity recovery of critical minerals including lithium, cobalt, nickel, and select rare earth elements.
Company leadership indicated that the investment is intended to set new benchmarks in responsible recycling and advanced mineral recovery, while also generating broader economic impact through job creation and industrial development. It is estimated that the project could support more than 500 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
NavPrakriti is also working on strengthening its research and development capabilities through collaborations with leading national and international institutions, focusing on improving chemical recovery processes and battery refurbishment technologies.
Founded in 2024 by Akhilesh Bagaria and Avnish Bagaria, the company currently operates its first lithium-ion battery recycling facility in Serampore, West Bengal. The unit, already functional, has an annual processing capacity of 12,000 tonnes and is designed to scale up to 24,000 tonnes.
The Odisha project will mark the company’s second major facility, expanding its footprint in the critical minerals segment and reinforcing its supply chain capabilities for India’s clean energy ecosystem.
The promoters also highlighted that the company is actively engaging with battery manufacturers and original equipment makers, with plans to build partnerships with over 150 stakeholders in the sector over the next three years, driven by the growing demand for recycled battery materials.
