Discovery of Gold Mines in Odisha: Keonjhar Leads with Fresh Gold Deposits
Geologists recently discovered gold mines in Odisha. They found gold reserves in the Gopur-Gazipur area of Keonjhar district. Experts are currently identifying gold mines in the Mankadachua, Saleikana, and Dimirimunda regions. Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, Odisha’s Steel and Mines Minister, revealed this information while answering an unstarred question from Congress MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati.
Ongoing Exploration in Mayurbhanj
Gold exploration efforts are currently underway in Mayurbhanj district areas such as Yashipur, Suriaguda, Ruaansi, Idelkucha, Maredihi, Suleipat, and Badampahad. Geologists have discovered gold deposits in several locations throughout the districts of Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, Anugul, Koraput, Malkangiri, Sambalpur, and Boudh.
Economic Significance of Gold Mines
If significant gold deposits in Odisha are confirmed, the state’s economy could benefit greatly. The Geological Survey of India recently conducted a geological survey in the Ramapalli area of Debgarh district, uncovering potential gold-bearing rocks during G2-level exploration. Geological estimates indicate that gold is present in this region. The government is currently preparing this mineral block for auction.
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Historical and Recent Surveys
Gold mines were first discovered in the Gopur-Gazipur area of Keonjhar district between 1981-83 and 1989-96 during preliminary surveys. The Geological Survey of India, in collaboration with the Directorate of Mines and Geology, has resumed G2-level exploration activities since 2021-2022. However, because the quality and quantity of the gold have yet to be determined, the government has no plans for extraction.
Exploration Initiatives Across the State
The Odisha Mining Corporation is conducting G4 and G3-level explorations in the Mankadachua, Saleikana, and Dimirimunda districts to identify gold mines. The state’s Directorate of Mines and Geology, in collaboration with the Geological Survey of India, continues to conduct initial surveys to identify potential gold deposits. Geologists have found scattered signs of gold in Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, Anugul, Koraput, Malkangiri, Sambalpur, and Boudh districts, but they need to conduct further investigations.
Future Prospects
The government currently has no plans to establish a processing unit to extract gold from these mines. More research and evaluation are required before any concrete steps can be taken. The discovery and use of these gold reserves could mark a significant milestone in Odisha’s economic development.
