India is seeking rare earth samples from a Russia-linked Siberian deposit owned by Rosneft, according to a source familiar with confidential discussions. The source says India wants to study the mineral composition of the deposit before deciding on any deeper engagement. The talks are conducted through government channels, with the source speaking on condition of anonymity.\n\nMultiple reports identify India’s state miner, IREL, as the entity involved in discussions with Rosneft for samples from Siberia’s Tomtor deposit. The stated approach is first to obtain and analyze samples and then consider further steps based on the findings.\n\nThe reports describe the effort as part of India’s broader push to secure critical mineral supply for growing demand, including for applications such as electric vehicles and clean energy. While the outlets discuss India’s interest in diversifying supply away from China, the immediate near-term focus in the reporting is on sample collection and assessment rather than any announced agreement for larger-scale procurement.