Geological Survey of India Expands Exploration for Critical Minerals and Rare Earth Elements in Central Region The Geological Survey of India (GSI), the nation’s oldest mineral exploration agency, is intensifying its efforts to locate critical minerals and rare earth elements (REEs) across 54 blocks in the central region of India. This region spans the states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, where GSI is currently conducting exploration in 426 blocks nationwide. Over 220 of these blocks are identified as potential sources for critical minerals, with additional focus on rare earth elements in select areas. When including all mineral types, GSI’s exploration activities extend to 93 blocks within the central region. The critical minerals under investigation include graphite, lithium, molybdenum, nickel, copper, tungsten, potash, phosphate, and phosphorite. In addition to these, four blocks are specifically targeted for rare earth elements and rare metals. The central regional office of GSI, based in Nagpur, recently celebrated its Foundation Day, during which additional director general VS Ganvir highlighted the agency’s focus on boosting domestic production of these strategic resources. According to Ganvir, the ministry of mines is expected to evaluate the findings from these explorations, which are projected to be finalized by September. Based on the results, the ministry may proceed to auction the central region’s blocks for mining. The auction process could involve either a direct mining license or a composite license, depending on the exploration outcomes. A composite license would require bidders to first conduct prospecting to confirm the presence of reserves before initiating mining operations.#nagpur #maharashtra #madhya_pradesh #chhattisgarh #geological_survey_of_india
