Kumar Bahukhandi
Representational Image
Raipur: In a significant milestone for mineral development, M/s Deccan Gold Mining Limited (DGML) has discovered Nickel, Chromium, and Platinum Group Elements (PGEs) in its recently acquired composite license area in Chhattisgarh. The breakthrough is being seen as a major step in unlocking the potential of critical and strategic minerals in the state, paving the way for a new era of scientific exploration.
The mineral find has been made in the Bhalukona–Jamnidih Ni, Cr & Associated PGE Block, which spans 3000 hectares in Mahasamund district. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) had earlier 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, Chhattisgarh (DGM, CG) validated the geo-scientific data and proceeded with an e-auction process.
The block was successfully auctioned on March 6, 2023, with DGML securing it by offering the highest bid of 21 percent. Since then, DGM, CG has extended continuous support and technical guidance to fast-track exploration activities. After receiving requisite clearances for non-destructive exploration in forest zones, DGML quickly initiated fieldwork including geological mapping, rock chip sampling, drone-based magnetic surveys, and Induced Polarization (IP) surveys to demarcate mineralized zones.
Preliminary findings have been encouraging, with a 700-meter-long mineralized zone identified in prospective mafic-ultramafic rock formations. Geophysical data further indicates the presence of sulphide mineralization up to a depth of 300 meters, suggesting substantial mineral potential in the area.
Adjacent to this discovery zone lies the Kelwardabri Ni, Cr & PGE Block, which was earlier auctioned to M/s 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.
Reacting to the development, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said, “This landmark discovery is a crucial step towards securing vital mineral resources for the state and the nation. It aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, promoting self-reliance and sustainable development in strategic sectors. The Government of Chhattisgarh remains fully committed to promoting scientific and sustainable mineral exploration to contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth.”
The discovery comes at a time when the state is actively pursuing an ambitious mineral exploration roadmap for 2024–25, with over 50% of the planned projects dedicated to critical and strategic minerals. 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 Ministry of Mines, Government of India, for auction in the near future.
To institutionalize efforts in this direction, DGM, CG 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.
Commenting on the broader implications, Shri P. Dayanand, Secretary, Department of Mineral Resources, said, “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. Chhattisgarh is determined to play a pivotal role in India’s strategic mineral map, and we are ensuring all necessary institutional and operational support to accelerate this momentum.”
Experts believe that this achievement further consolidates Chhattisgarh’s position as a mineral-rich state and lays a strong foundation for future discoveries in critical mineral exploration — vital for advancements in technology, national security, and clean energy sectors.
