Now Reading: Andhra Pradesh inks Rs 140 crore pact for lithium, gallium exploration
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Andhra Pradesh inks Rs 140 crore pact for lithium, gallium exploration
Andhra Pradesh signed an agreement on Wednesday with CSIR-NGRI to explore lithium and gallium deposits in the Kadapa Basin, backed by Rs 140 crore from the National Mineral Exploration Trust. Preliminary studies…
The Story in Brief
Andhra Pradesh signed an agreement on Wednesday with CSIR-NGRI to explore lithium and gallium deposits in the Kadapa Basin, backed by Rs 140 crore from the National Mineral Exploration Trust. Preliminary studies near Vempalle have indicated lithium concentrations of up to 1,000 ppm and gallium up to 250 ppm. The state also partnered with IIT (ISM) Dhanbad-TEXMiN to set up a mining Centre of Excellence, focusing on research, technology, and skill development. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu was present at the signing.
The exploration project, funded entirely by the National Mineral Exploration Trust, aims to confirm the presence of these critical minerals. The Hindu Business Line reports that the NGRI and state Mines and Geology departments signed the pact. The Centre of Excellence will help strengthen the mining sector in the state through advanced training and research.
The Indian Opinion
The Andhra Pradesh government's push for critical minerals is welcome, but the hype around lithium and gallium needs tempering. Preliminary studies show only traces of these minerals, with concentrations of up to 1,000 ppm for lithium and 250 ppm for gallium. Commercial viability is far from guaranteed. The real test will come when the National Mineral Exploration Trust-funded project yields detailed geological data. Until then, claims of a 'lithium bonanza' remain premature. The Centre of Excellence with IIT (ISM) Dhanbad is a sensible step for long-term skill development, but immediate extraction hopes should be held in check.
Source: thehindubusinessline.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
