India’s first lithium-ion cell manufacturing plant was set up by a consortium led by the Central ElectroChemical Research Institute (CECRI) under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu. The plant was established to address the growing demand for lithium-ion batteries in various sectors, including electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.

The initiative aimed to reduce India’s dependence on imported lithium-ion cells, which are crucial components in the production of batteries for electric vehicles and other electronic devices. By establishing domestic manufacturing capabilities, India sought to enhance its energy security, promote indigenous innovation, and support the country’s transition towards sustainable and cleaner energy technologies.

The establishment of the lithium-ion cell manufacturing plant marked a significant milestone in India’s efforts to bolster its energy storage ecosystem and promote the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions. It also aligned with the government’s initiatives to promote Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in key strategic sectors such as advanced manufacturing and clean energy technologies.