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India.com
6 days ago
- Business
- India.com
India hits jackpot! This Indian State set to become super rich as massive Nickel-Copper-PGE deposits found in.., will change...
Raipur: Deccan Gold Mines Limited (DGML) has discovered a Nickel-Copper-Platinum Group Element (Ni-Cu-PGE) minerals deposit, strategically important for green energy and high-tech applications, in Chhattisgarh's Mahasamund district, officials said on Tuesday, news agency PTI reported. The discovery is a crucial step towards securing vital mineral resources for the state and the nation, said Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, adding that it aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, promoting self-reliance and sustainable development in strategic sectors. 'This discovery is not just a scientific success but a strategic leap forward. With growing global demand for green and high-tech applications, critical minerals like nickel and PGEs are the backbone of future technologies,' P Dayanand, secretary, Department of Mineral Resources, was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Where exactly were these massive mineral reserves discovered? In a release, the company stated that the breakthrough is being seen as a major step in unlocking the potential of critical and strategic minerals in the state. The DGML, a gold and critical minerals resource company, secured a 30 square km Composite Licence (permission that allows the firm to first search for minerals and then mine them) for the Bhalukona-Jamnidih block in Basana tehsil on April 1. Why is this discovery a game changer for India's economy? Earlier, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) had conducted G4-level exploration of the block and identified promising mineralization of Nickel, Chromium, and PGEs. Building on this foundation, the Directorate of Geology and Mining (DGM), Chhattisgarh validated the geo-scientific data and proceeded with an e-auction process, it said. The DGML secured the block through an auctioning process on March 6, 2023. As per the company, the preliminary findings are encouraging, with a 700-meter-long mineralized zone identified in prospective mafic-ultramafic rock formations. Furthermore, Geophysical data indicate the presence of sulphide mineralization up to a depth of 300 meters, suggesting substantial mineral potential in the area, it added. Adjacent to this discovery zone lies the Kelwardabri Ni, Cr and PGE Block, which was earlier auctioned to Vedanta Limited. The two blocks together are expected to emerge as a high-potential critical mineral hub in Mahasamund, placing Chhattisgarh on the strategic mineral development map of India, the release said. The discovery comes at a time when the state is actively pursuing an ambitious mineral exploration roadmap for 2024-25, with over 50 per cent of the planned projects dedicated to critical and strategic minerals, it said. The release stated that so far, Chhattisgarh has successfully auctioned 51 mineral blocks, which includes 10 blocks of key resources such as graphite, nickel, chromium, PGEs, lithium, glauconite, phosphorite and graphite-vanadium. In addition, six tin blocks have been submitted to the Union Ministry of Mines, for auction in the near future. To institutionalize efforts in this direction, the DGM Chhattisgarh has set up a dedicated Critical Mineral Cell aimed at providing expert guidance and promoting collaboration with academic, research, and industry institutions to enable advanced exploration and beneficiation of these resources, it added. (With PTI Inputs)
Hindustan Times
7 days ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Chhattisgarh: Nickel-Copper-PGE deposit discovered in Mahasamund district
A significant deposit of Nickel, Copper, and Platinum Group Elements (Ni-Cu-PGE) was discovered in Chhattisgarh's Mahasamund district, a statement issued by the state government said on Wednesday. Deccan Gold Mines Limited (DGML) was awarded a 30sq km Composite Licence for the block on April 1 this year. (Representative file photo) The mineral discovery, located in the Bhalukona-Jamnidih block of Basna tehsil, is expected to play a critical role in advancing self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the statement said. 'This is a crucial step toward securing vital resources for both the state and the nation,' said chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai. 'It supports our vision for sustainable development and aligns with India's drive toward strategic independence in critical sectors,' it said. Also Read: Cabinet approves National Critical Mineral Mission Deccan Gold Mines Limited (DGML), a company focused on gold and critical mineral exploration, was awarded a 30sq km Composite Licence for the block on April 1 this year. The licence allows the firm to both explore and eventually mine the area. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) had previously conducted G4-level exploration in the region, identifying promising traces of Nickel, Chromium, and PGEs. These findings were later validated by Chhattisgarh's Directorate of Geology and Mining (DGM), which subsequently facilitated an e-auction for the block. DGML won the block through this process on March 6, 2023, the statement said. Preliminary results from DGML's ongoing exploration are encouraging. A 700-meter-long mineralised zone has been identified within prospective mafic-ultramafic rock formations. Geophysical surveys indicate the presence of sulphide mineralization extending up to 300 meters in depth, pointing to substantial resource potential, it added. P Dayanand, secretary of the department of mineral resources, described the discovery as a 'strategic leap forward.' 'With the global push for green and high-tech technologies, critical minerals like nickel and PGEs have become the backbone of future innovation,' Dayanand said. So far, the state has successfully auctioned 51 mineral blocks, including 10 key blocks containing resources such as graphite, nickel, chromium, PGEs, lithium, glauconite, phosphorite, and graphite-vanadium. Additionally, six tin blocks have been submitted to the Union ministry of mines for upcoming auctions. To streamline exploration and innovation in this sector, the DGM has established a Critical Mineral Cell, aimed at fostering collaboration with academic, research, and industry institutions.
Time of India
29-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
CG now tops GSDP share from mining, leads in forest gain
Raipur: Chhattisgarh's mining sector now contributes the highest share to any Indian state's economy -- 9.38% of its gross state domestic product (GSDP). This figure surpasses traditional mining giants like Odisha (9%) and Jharkhand (5.3%), according to the Union ministry of statistics and EY's 2025 sectoral analysis. But, experts say, what sets Chhattisgarh apart is not just the economic magnitude of its mining industry. It's the state's defiance of the belief that mining and environmental sustainability can't go hand-in-hand, experts added. Chhattisgarh is extracting value through mining activities while regenerating the green. Mining contributes just about 2.2% to the national GDP. Secretary, mineral resources department of Chhattisgarh, P Dayanand told TOI, "Of the state's 1.35 crore hectares of geographical area, nearly 44.3% (about 59.8 lakh hectares) is forest. Since 1980, only 28,781 hectares -- around 0.47% of that forest area -- have been diverted for mining that ranges to only 0.21% of the state's total land. And not all of that diversion impacts the ground: The underground mining, which covers 12,783 hectares across 27 mines, leaves the forest canopy untouched. Open cast mining accounts for just 0.26% of the forest area on 16,000 hectares." "What distinguishes Chhattisgarh is its phased approach to mining. Rather than mass clearances, only 5% to 6% of trees is felled each year over a mine's 40–50-year lifespan. For instance, at Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Ltd (RRVNL) PEKB coal mine in Hasdeo Arand coalfield, about 80–90 hectares are cleared annually while the approval is for 1,900 hectares. This gradual clearance allows ecosystems to adapt and regenerate," added Dayanand. "Every rupee earned from mining is being reinvested into our villages, farmers, and future. It's a model built on deliberate policy and disciplined execution. We are committed to operationalising our auctioned blocks without compromising our green ethos," Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai told TOI. In 2025, the state is planting 2.5 crore saplings under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign — an area equivalent to 25,000 hectares, CM said. For every hectare of forest diverted, 5 to 10 hectares worth of trees are planted at a rate of 1,100 saplings per hectare. According to India State of Forest Report, Chhattisgarh has registered a net gain of 68,362 hectares in forest cover, the highest among all Indian states. Besides afforestation by forest department, companies like Bhilai Steel Plant, RRVNL, and SECL have also begun reclaiming mined-out areas, handing them back for ecological restoration. BSP has reclaimed 48% of its mined land, RRVNL 28%, and SECL 16%, says data. Chhattisgarh underperforms on revenue realisation Mining sector provides direct employment to about 2 lakh people and indirectly supports another 20 lakh across steel, cement, aluminium, and power sectors. Yet, experts point out that Chhattisgarh is still underperforming on revenue realisation. While mining revenues have grown from Rs 6,110 crore in 2018–19 to Rs 14,000 crore in 2024–25, Odisha saw a fourfold increase in the same period, from Rs 10,499 crore to Rs 45,000 crore — largely due to faster operationalisation of auctioned mineral blocks. "Chhattisgarh still has work to do. Speeding up mine activation could unlock vital funds for key welfare schemes like Mahtari Vandan Yojana, PMAY, Jal Jeevan Mission, and the Rs 50,000 crore Bodhghat multipurpose dam project," said an official.
Time of India
29-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Chhattisgarh now tops GSDP share from mining, leads in forest gain
RAIPUR:Chhattisgarh's mining sector now contributes the highest share to any Indian state's economy -- 9.38% of its gross state domestic product (GSDP). This figure surpasses traditional mining giants like Odisha (9%) and Jharkhand (5.3%), according to the Union ministry of statistics and EY's 2025 sectoral analysis. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now But, experts say, what sets Chhattisgarh apart is not just the economic magnitude of its mining industry. It's the state's defiance of the belief that mining and environmental sustainability can't go hand-in-hand, experts added. Chhattisgarh is extracting value through mining activities while regenerating the green. Mining contributes just about 2.2% to the national GDP. Secretary, mineral resources department of Chhattisgarh, P Dayanand told TOI, 'Of the state's 1.35 crore hectares of geographical area, nearly 44.3% (about 59.8 lakh hectares) is forest. Since 1980, only 28,781 hectares -- around 0.47% of that forest area -- have been diverted for mining that ranges to only 0.21% of the state's total land. And not all of that diversion impacts the ground: The underground mining, which covers 12,783 hectares across 27 mines, leaves the forest canopy untouched. Open cast mining accounts for just 0.26% of the forest area on 16,000 hectares.' 'What distinguishes Chhattisgarh is its phased approach to mining. Rather than mass clearances, only 5% to 6% of trees is felled each year over a mine's 40–50-year lifespan. For instance, at Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Ltd (RRVNL) PEKB coal mine in Hasdeo Arand coalfield, about 80–90 hectares are cleared annually while the approval is for 1,900 hectares. This gradual clearance allows ecosystems to adapt and regenerate,' added Dayanand. 'Every rupee earned from mining is being reinvested into our villages, farmers, and future. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now It's a model built on deliberate policy and disciplined execution. We are committed to operationalising our auctioned blocks without compromising our green ethos,' Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai told TOI. In 2025, the state is planting 2.5 crore saplings under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign — an area equivalent to 25,000 hectares, CM said. For every hectare of forest diverted, 5 to 10 hectares worth of trees are planted at a rate of 1,100 saplings per hectare. According to India State of Forest Report, Chhattisgarh has registered a net gain of 68,362 hectares in forest cover, the highest among all Indian states. Besides afforestation by forest department, companies like Bhilai Steel Plant, RRVNL, and SECL have also begun reclaiming mined-out areas, handing them back for ecological restoration. BSP has reclaimed 48% of its mined land, RRVNL 28%, and SECL 16%, says data. Chhattisgarh underperforms on revenue realisation Mining sector provides direct employment to about 2 lakh people and indirectly supports another 20 lakh across steel, cement, aluminium, and power sectors. Yet, experts point out that Chhattisgarh is still underperforming on revenue realisation. While mining revenues have grown from Rs 6,110 crore in 2018–19 to Rs 14,000 crore in 2024–25, Odisha saw a fourfold increase in the same period, from Rs 10,499 crore to Rs 45,000 crore — largely due to faster operationalisation of auctioned mineral blocks. 'Chhattisgarh still has work to do. Speeding up mine activation could unlock vital funds for key welfare schemes like Mahtari Vandan Yojana, PMAY, Jal Jeevan Mission, and the Rs 50,000 crore Bodhghat multipurpose dam project,' said an official. Chhattisgarh vs Odisha and Jharkhand: A Revenue Reality Check While Chhattisgarh leads in GDP share, its mineral revenue lags behind Odisha. In FY 2024-25: Odisha's mining revenue: ₹45,000 crore Chhattisgarh's mining revenue: ₹14,000 crore Jharkhand (not detailed in source but generally lower than Odisha)
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Centre applauds Chhattisgarh's transparency and impact in DMF implementation
Setting a high benchmark for transparency and inclusive development in mining-affected regions, Chhattisgarh has been nationally acknowledged by Ministry of Mines for its exemplary work under the District Mineral Foundation ( DMF ) scheme. Recognized as a model state for its innovative and effective use of DMF funds, Chhattisgarh's achievements were applauded at the ' National DMF Workshop ' held in New Delhi. The state's commitment to data transparency, community welfare, and sustainable progress in mineral-rich districts has positioned it as a shining example for other states to emulate. During the event at the scope convention centre, Union Minister of Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy presented a prestigious commendation certificate to P Dayanand, secretary to the Chief Minister and secretary of the department of minerals, recognizing state's outstanding contribution in maintaining over 90% of its DMF data on national portals and driving impactful development in mining-affected areas. Ministry of Mines maintains a comprehensive database on the National DMF Portal, which consolidates data from all states under the Prime Minister's Mineral Sector Welfare Scheme . The state's efforts were showcased as a model for others, with recommendations issued for states to emulate state's best practices in data uploading, transparency, and effective on-ground implementation. Participants included secretaries, directors, and district collectors from various mining-affected districts across the country. DMF funds are meant to foster inclusive development in education, healthcare, drinking water, infrastructure, and livelihoods within mining-impacted communities. To date, projects worth Rs 16,506 crore have been sanctioned, encompassing 1,01,313 development works, out of which 70,318 have been successfully completed. Representing Chhattisgarh at the workshop were Secretary of the Department of Minerals, P Dayanand, Director Rajat Bansal, along with collectors and DMF nodal officers from Balod, Balodabazar-Bhatapara, Korba, Raigarh, and Dantewada districts.
