History of Indian Rare Earths Limited

In the pre-independence era, a chance discovery of monazite in Kerala led to its exploitation for the benefit of Europe. Recognizing the importance of rare earth minerals for the Indian nuclear program, Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL), a central government undertaking was incorporated in 1950 to process minerals for the production of rare earths and extraction of thorium. This article describes the genesis and achievements of IREL over the past seven decades, highlighting IREL's contribution to the development of nuclear power industry in India. Having established production facilities for the present requirements of Indian nuclear program, IREL is implementing projects to meet requirements of other strategic applications such as rare earth magnets, and to establish plants to bring new products to the value chain.