A recent study by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) indicated lithium’s presence in some districts of Odisha, a senior GSI official announced on Sunday. Lithium, a vital metal in producing glass, aluminum products, and batteries, has previously been found in parts of Karnataka and Jammu and Kashmir.
As GSI meeting attendees in Konark prepared for the two-day National Mines Ministers’ Conference starting Monday, Union Mines Secretary V L Kantha Rao confirmed that the GSI uses various methods, including drones, to survey mineral deposits in Odisha. The agency has also started incorporating artificial intelligence to locate valuable mineral resources like lithium and copper.
“Drone-based technologies have made the process easier and faster,” Rao said. He cited two pilot projects, one in Rajasthan and another in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, emphasizing that survey activities will be intensified in districts where mining operations have been on hold for many years.
Addressing reporters, Rao noted that Odisha’s mining operations have become a model for the entire country. He highlighted the significance of the mines ministers’ conference, as Odisha contributes nearly 50% of India’s minerals.
In the 64th meeting of the Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB), Rao, who is also the board chairman, discussed the platform’s crucial role in fostering collaboration and advancing geosciences. He outlined key initiatives of the Ministry of Mines, including the Critical Mineral Mission and Offshore Mining, in line with recent budgetary announcements.
Rao pointed out the successful auction of 24 critical mineral blocks in the 2024-25 fiscal year, as well as the launch of India’s first-ever auction of 13 offshore mineral blocks. He urged exploration agencies to leverage the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) funding to enhance mineral exploration and execute research and development projects.
Moreover, Rao emphasized new initiatives to issue more exploration licenses, enabling private agencies to contribute to the mineral exploration landscape.
“If lithium reserves are confirmed in Odisha, it could pave the way for establishing electric vehicle manufacturing units in the state,” Rao stated.
The findings of the GSI study and the discussions at the conference underscore the crucial role of enhanced mineral exploration and the implementation of innovative technologies in unlocking India’s vast mineral potential.
