Huge good reserves found in Odisha, Confirms GSI

GSI confirms nearly 20 metric tonnes of reserves; first gold mining block to be auctioned soon

Bhubaneswar : Odisha is set to script a new chapter in India’s mineral exploration journey, with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) confirming the presence of nearly 20 metric tonnes of gold reserves across multiple districts of the state. The findings, revealed by Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena in the state assembly, place Odisha firmly on the country’s gold exploration map.

According to the minister, significant deposits have been identified in Deogarh’s Adasa-Rampalli region, as well as in Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, Keonjhar, Angul, and Koraput. In addition, preliminary exploration is underway in Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri, Sambalpur, and Boudh, where surveys are being carried out to establish the full scale of reserves.

India is one of the largest consumers of gold in the world, importing nearly 700–800 tonnes annually to meet domestic demand. Experts suggest that if Odisha’s reserves prove commercially viable, they could play a crucial role in reducing the country’s reliance on imports. This would not only save valuable foreign exchange but also boost self-reliance in the strategic metal sector.

“The discovery of gold reserves is a matter of pride for Odisha and a significant development for India. It has the potential to change the dynamics of resource utilisation in the country,” Jena said while addressing the assembly.

To capitalise on the discovery, the Odisha government is preparing to auction its first gold mining block in Deogarh. The process will involve advanced sampling, feasibility studies, and the development of supporting infrastructure around the proposed mining zones.

The Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), in collaboration with GSI, will spearhead the roadmap to ensure transparent and scientific mining practices. Authorities believe the upcoming auction could attract both domestic and international mining companies eager to participate in India’s growing mineral exploration sector.

Odisha is already a leading state in mineral wealth, with rich deposits of chromite, bauxite, and iron ore. The addition of gold reserves to its portfolio could further consolidate its status as a mining powerhouse. Industry analysts note that the discovery of gold will diversify Odisha’s mineral basket, opening new avenues for investment and industrial growth.

Beyond economic value, the project is expected to generate employment opportunities for local communities. From exploration to extraction and processing, the gold mining ecosystem will require a wide range of skilled and unskilled workers, thereby boosting livelihoods in mineral-rich districts.

While the discovery brings immense promise, officials have underlined the importance of sustainable mining practices. Feasibility studies will not only assess commercial viability but also evaluate environmental impact and community welfare measures.

“Mining operations must go hand-in-hand with environmental safeguards and social responsibility. The government will ensure that these projects contribute to both economic growth and sustainable development,” an official from the Mines Department said.

If successfully developed, Odisha’s gold reserves could mark a strategic breakthrough for India’s domestic resource utilisation. By tapping into these deposits, the state would not only contribute to the national economy but also create a new sector of growth within its borders.

With exploration moving into advanced stages and the first auction on the horizon, Odisha stands at the threshold of becoming the new epicentre of gold mining in the country. The discovery has already generated excitement among policymakers, industry experts, and local communities alike—ushering in a golden opportunity for both the state and the nation.

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