Odisha is poised to become a new epicentre of gold exploration, with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) confirming the presence of nearly 20 metric tonnes of reserves across several districts.
Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena revealed the findings in the state assembly, identifying key deposits in Deogarh’s Adasa-Rampalli region, Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, Keonjhar, Angul, and Koraput.
Preliminary exploration is also underway in Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri, Sambalpur, and Boudh. While the exact commercial viability is still under review, experts suggest the reserves could significantly reduce India’s reliance on gold imports, which currently stand at 700–800 tonnes annually.
The Odisha government, in collaboration with the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) and GSI, is preparing to auction its first gold mining block in Deogarh. The roadmap includes advanced sampling, feasibility studies, and infrastructure development around proposed mining zones.
This discovery not only enhances Odisha’s mineral portfolio—already rich in chromite, bauxite, and iron ore—but also promises new employment opportunities and regional development. If commercially viable, the gold reserves could mark a strategic breakthrough in India’s domestic resource utilisation.
