Chhattisgarh NEWS : Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the Chhattisgarh government has set new standards in economic and industrial progress by implementing a transparent mining policy, e-auctioning, digital surveillance, and environmentally responsible mining methods. These measures have significantly boosted mineral revenue, which has increased 30-fold since the state’s formation. In 2023-24, mineral earnings reached ₹13,000 crore, with ₹11,581 crore already collected in the first 11 months of FY 2024-25. This remarkable growth reflects the success of transparent policies and efficient governance. So far, 44 mineral blocks have been successfully e-auctioned, including 14 limestone, 9 iron ore, 11 bauxite, 3 gold, 2 nickel-chromium, 2 graphite, 2 glauconite, and 1 lithium block.

Auctioning of Critical and Deep-Seated Mineral Blocks

Recognizing the importance of critical minerals, the Indian government launched the National Critical Minerals Mission in January 2025. In alignment with this initiative, Chhattisgarh has prioritized mineral exploration, with 31 out of 56 ongoing projects focused on critical and deep-seated minerals. The state has successfully auctioned 10 such blocks, including 1 lithium, 3 gold, 2 nickel-chromium, 2 graphite, and 2 glauconite blocks. Notably, India’s first lithium block auction was conducted by the central government, awarding the Katghora lithium block in Korba district to South Mykey Mining Company at a 76% premium. Further lithium exploration is ongoing in Sukma and Korba districts, showing promising reserves.

Bailadila: A Key Player in India’s Iron Ore Industry

Bailadila remains one of the largest iron ore reserves in the country, with three new iron ore blocks currently under e-auction, expected to be finalized by March 2025. Additionally, the auction process for the Hahaladdi iron ore block in Kanker district is in its final phase.

Environmentally Sustainable and Transparent Mining Practices

The state government has taken several steps to ensure mining operations remain environmentally balanced and scientifically managed. Satellite imagery and digital surveillance are actively tracking illegal mining, while systematic excavation methods are being encouraged, particularly in minor mineral quarries. A ‘star rating’ system has also been introduced to reward leaseholders who adopt best environmental practices.

Investing Mineral Wealth in Social and Infrastructure Development

A substantial portion of mineral revenue is being reinvested in social development projects. In FY 2024-25, the District Mineral Fund Trust has received ₹1,673 crore, funding 9,362 initiatives in education, healthcare, roads, clean drinking water, and skill development, improving living standards in mining-affected areas.

Expanding Exploration Efforts and Future Projects

Chhattisgarh is actively exploring new mineral reserves across 13 projects, including limestone, bauxite, iron ore, and graphite. Initial surveys indicate reserves of 283 million tonnes of limestone, 67 million tonnes of iron ore, and 3 lakh tonnes of bauxite. Additionally, gold, graphite, and glauconite exploration is in progress. A proposal has been submitted to the Department of Atomic Energy for uranium exploration in Jajawal, Surajpur district. Furthermore, Coal Bed Methane exploration licenses have been awarded to Vedanta Ltd. and Oilmax in Koriya district, while Manganese Ore India Ltd. (MOIL) has identified manganese deposits in Balrampur.

To enhance exploration, the central government has established the National Mineral Exploration Trust, and Chhattisgarh is now working on forming a State Mineral Exploration Trust to systematically develop minor mineral resources.

With its rich deposits of 28 minerals—including coal, iron ore, limestone, bauxite, gold, nickel, chromium, and platinum group elements—Chhattisgarh is emerging as a leading hub for industrial and economic growth. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership, combined with transparent policies and sustainable strategies, is driving the state toward a future of balanced economic expansion and green development. In the coming years, Chhattisgarh aims to solidify its status as India’s premier mining and industrial powerhouse through strategic resource management and sustainable practices.