In a significant development, several prominent companies, including Coal India, Vedanta, Adani Group, and Jindal, have expressed their interest in conducting a survey and excavation of a recently discovered lithium mine in Chhattisgarh’s Korba district. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) uncovered the presence of lithium in the Katghora tehsil of the region in February 2023.
Size of the Lithium Deposits and Stakeholders
According to an initial report, the lithium deposits cover an area of 256.12 hectares, with approximately 84.86 hectares belonging to the forested region. The announcement of various companies, including Ola Electric, Shree Cement, Khanij Bidesh India, Oriental Mining & Co, Dalmia, Rungta, and UltraTech, expressing their interest in the project highlights the potential significance of this discovery.
Value of Lithium and Its Implications
Lithium, a crucial component in the production of batteries for electric vehicles, has become an increasingly valuable resource globally, primarily due to the growing demand for electric mobility. The discovery of lithium in Chhattisgarh holds tremendous potential for both developers and the economy as a whole, as it presents an opportunity for the development of a domestic lithium market.
Range of Lithium Content and Proposed License
Based on the geochemical mapping carried out by the GSI, the composite samples from the Katghora area exhibited varying lithium values, ranging from 82.606 to 155 ppm (parts per million). These findings suggest promising prospects for future mining operations and further exploration. Moreover, the GSI report also indicates that the Katghora block may be proposed for a composite license, which would encompass both a prospecting license and a mining lease. The inclusion of this block in the ongoing nationwide auction process for 20 mineral blocks signifies the potential significance of these lithium reserves in meeting the nation’s growing mineral demands.
Scope for Mining Expansion and Diversification
The interest demonstrated by Coal India, alongside other traditionally coal-focused companies, showcases their intent to diversify and expand their mining activities. If granted the license, Coal India plans to incorporate the extraction of lithium into their operations, highlighting the increasing importance of lithium mining within the broader mineral exploration and extraction sector.
Conclusion
The expressed interest of various companies, including industry stalwarts such as Coal India, Vedanta, Adani Group, and Jindal, in conducting a survey and excavation of the recently discovered lithium mine in Chhattisgarh’s Korba district, signifies the industry’s recognition of the economic potential and value of lithium deposits. The ongoing auction process for the mineral blocks also indicates a concerted effort towards meeting the nation’s mineral demands and promoting sustainable and diversified mining practices. This ambitious endeavor holds immense promise for the region’s economic growth, as it brings together both established market players and newer entrants in the pursuit of advancing India’s position in the global lithium market.
