Chhattisgarh Emerges as Major Ni–Cu–PGE Mineral Belt with Breakthrough Discovery in Mahasamund

In a landmark development for India’s critical mineral sector, a potential Nickel–Copper–Platinum Group Elements (Ni–Cu–PGE) sulphide mineralisation deposit has been discovered in the Bhalukona–Jamnidih block of Mahasamund district, Chhattisgarh. The find is being hailed as a major step towards securing strategic mineral resources essential for India’s industrial and clean energy future.

A Strategic Mineral Hub in the Making

The discovery was made by Deccan Gold Mining Limited (DGML) in a 3,000-hectare composite licence area, about 70 km from Raipur. This follows earlier G4-level exploration by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), which had identified promising Ni–Cu–PGE mineralisation.

The Chhattisgarh Directorate of Geology and Mining validated the geoscientific data and auctioned the block in March 2023, where DGML emerged as the highest bidder with a 21% premium.

Encouraging Early Exploration Results

Following environmental and forest clearances for non-destructive exploration, DGML launched detailed fieldwork including,

• Geological mapping and rock chip sampling
• Drone-based magnetic surveys
• Induced Polarisation (IP) surveys to identify mineralised zones

Initial results reveal a 700-metre-long mineralised zone within mafic–ultramafic rock formations, with geophysical data indicating sulphide mineralisation up to a depth of 300 metres—suggesting significant commercial potential.

Part of a Larger Critical Mineral Belt

Adjacent to the Bhalukona–Jamnidih block lies the Kelwardabri Ni–Cu–PGE block, earlier auctioned to the Vedanta Group. Together, these two deposits could transform Mahasamund into a high-potential critical mineral hub, strengthening India’s position in the global strategic mineral supply chain.

Government’s Push for Critical Mineral Security

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai hailed the discovery as a milestone for the state and the nation. “This landmark discovery is a crucial step towards securing vital mineral resources for India’s growth. The government is committed to promoting scientific and sustainable exploration of strategic minerals,”

The state has already auctioned 51 mineral blocks, including 10 critical resource blocks for graphite, nickel, chromium, PGEs, lithium, glauconite, phosphorite, and graphite–vanadium. Over 50% of Chhattisgarh’s 2024–25 exploration roadmap is dedicated to critical and strategic minerals.