First Lithium Mines Set to Open in Katghora, Korba District
India is poised to launch its first lithium mining operations in the Katghora region of Korba district, Chhattisgarh, marking a significant milestone in the country’s mineral exploration efforts. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has confirmed substantial lithium deposits in the area, ranging from 10 to 2,000 parts per million (PPM) across approximately 250 hectares.
National Mineral Exploration Trust Meeting Announces Strategic Initiatives
The decision to commence lithium mining was made during the sixth governing body meeting of the National Mineral Exploration Trust in New Delhi, chaired by Union Minister G Kishan Reddy. Discussions centered on the extraction and utilization of critical minerals, with a focus on balancing economic development and environmental conservation. State health minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, representing Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, emphasized the significant role Chhattisgarh will play in contributing to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Tender Issued for Allocation of 20 Critical Mineral Blocks
In a strategic move to secure essential resources, the Ministry of Mines has issued a Notice Inviting Tender (NIT) on the MSTC portal for the allocation of 20 critical and strategic mineral blocks through e-auction. Among these, the lithium and Rare Earth Element (REE) block in Katghora stands out, with preliminary surveys revealing promising lithium concentrations. These minerals are crucial for industries such as renewable energy, defense, and high-tech electronics, where India currently depends on imports. With this new venture, Chhattisgarh’s mineral revenue, which reached approximately Rs 13,000 crore in 2023-24, is expected to see further growth.
