India is set to inaugurate its first lithium mine in the Katghora region of Korba district, Chhattisgarh, following the Geological Survey of India’s (GSI) confirmation of significant lithium deposits. The GSI’s preliminary surveys have identified lithium concentrations ranging from 10 to 2,000 parts per million (PPM) across approximately 250 hectares, with potential for even higher content.
The decision to commence lithium mining was announced during the sixth governing body meeting of the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) in New Delhi, chaired by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy. State Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, representing Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, emphasized that this development positions Chhattisgarh as a leading contributor to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The Ministry of Mines has issued a Notice Inviting Tender (NIT) for the allocation of 20 critical and strategic mineral blocks across various states, including the lithium and Rare Earth Element (REE) block in Katghora. These blocks will be allocated through an e-auction process.
Lithium is a critical component in the production of lithium-ion batteries, which are essential for electric vehicles and various electronic devices. Currently, India relies heavily on imports for such minerals. The establishment of domestic lithium mining capabilities is expected to reduce this dependence and support the country’s renewable energy and high-tech industries.
