Chhattisgarh’s Mineral Wealth Expands with Significant Nickel, Chromium, and PGE Discovery

Chhattisgarh’s mineral sector has experienced a breakthrough with the discovery of nickel, chromium, and platinum group elements (PGEs) in the Mahasamund district. Deccan Gold Mining Limited (DGML) made this significant discovery within a recently acquired joint concession area, heralding a new era of exploration for strategic minerals in the state. The Bhalukona–Jamnidih block, encompassing approximately 3,000 hectares, holds the key to this promising development. Initial assessments by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) indicated the presence of these valuable minerals, prompting the Directorate of Geology and Mining (DGM) to initiate an e-auction process. DGML emerged victorious in the March 6, 2023, auction, securing the block with a 21% bid. With technical support from DGM, DGML launched exploration activities, including detailed geological mapping, rock chip sampling, drone-based magnetic surveys, and Induced Polarization (IP) surveys. Early results have been encouraging, with a 700-meter mineralized zone identified within potential mafic-ultramafic rock formations. Geophysical surveys suggest the presence of sulfide minerals up to a depth of 300 meters, indicating substantial mineral potential. The proximity of the Kelverdbury block, previously awarded to M/s Vedanta Limited, further enhances the strategic importance of the Mahasamund area as a potential hub for critical mineral resources. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai lauded the discovery, highlighting its importance for securing essential resources and supporting the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. The state government is committed to supporting comprehensive mineral exploration and development, with a strong focus on strategic minerals reflected in the 2024-25 exploration proposals. To date, the state has successfully auctioned 51 mineral blocks, including those containing graphite, nickel, chromium, PGEs, lithium, glauconite, phosphorite, and graphite-vanadium. Furthermore, 6 tin blocks have been transferred to the Ministry of Mines for auction. The establishment of a Critical Mineral Cell within DGM, Chhattisgarh, is aimed at fostering research and collaboration to promote mineral exploration and refinement. According to Mr. P. Dayanand, Secretary of the Department of Mineral Resources, this discovery represents a strategic advancement, especially considering the growing global demand for minerals like nickel and PGEs, which are crucial for green energy and high-tech applications. Chhattisgarh is positioned to play a crucial role in India’s strategic mineral landscape, with the government providing necessary support for this endeavor. Experts emphasize the potential of this discovery to strengthen Chhattisgarh’s mineral position and to pave the way for finding essential minerals for modern technology, national security, and clean energy.