Insiders: India researches possibility of acquiring Russian coking coal assets and importing nickel

According to Indian sources, the Indian state-owned Steel Authority of India and NMDC company are exploring the possibility of acquiring Russian coking coal assets. India is seeking to ensure the supply security of key raw materials. Three sources familiar with the situation said that India sent a delegation to Russia last month for initial discussions with the Russian government and company executives. One source said that both the Steel Authority of India and NMDC are exploring channels for raw material procurement and are in contact with the Russian side. He also added that the Steel Authority of India has set up an internal group to study this issue. Two Indian sources and one Russian source also said that India hopes to increase its imports of nickel from Russia. The two Indian sources said that preliminary talks were held in New Delhi in April.