Centre Clears Opening Of India's First Lithium Mine In Korba, Chhattisgarh

The central government has announced the opening of India's first lithium mines in the Katghora region of Korba district, Chhattisgarh.

This decision was made at the sixth governing body meeting of the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) in New Delhi on Monday (12 August).

The Katghora block in Korba district has been identified as a significant site for lithium and rare earth element (REE) minerals, based on a reconnaissance survey conducted by the Geological Survey of India (GSI).

The GSI reported lithium concentrations ranging from 10 to 2,000 parts per million (PPM) across approximately 250 hectares, with the potential for even higher content.

In a key move to secure lithium supplies, Kolkata-based Maiki South Mining Pvt Ltd has been awarded the composite licence (CL) to explore the Katghora block in Chhattisgarh. The licence was granted at an auction premium of 76.05 per cent.

The composite licence, which includes both prospecting and mining rights, is issued for areas with preliminary government exploration but requiring further investigation by mining companies.

Successful bidders are required to conduct detailed geological exploration to confirm the presence of minerals. Once the mineral content is verified, they can apply for a mining lease from the state government and obtain all necessary approvals to commence mining operations.

State Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, representing Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at the meeting, emphasised the importance of lithium as a crucial metal for the state's and the country's development.

 He remarked, "With the commencement of the lithium mine in the state, Chhattisgarh will become one of the leading contributors to India's vision of development by 2047."