Andhra, Telangana rare earth mineral finds reported

Andhra Pradesh is exploring measures to develop its rare earth mineral resources and promote local permanent magnet manufacturing, Mines Minister Kollu Ravindra said on Thursday. A delegation led by former atomic energy scientist Prof. Yugandhar Rao submitted a proposal highlighting deposits along the North Andhra coast, including ilmenite, rutile, zircon, garnet, sillimanite and monazite, and urged private investment. The government is examining the proposals and will bring them to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's notice.

Separately, the Geological Survey of India has identified an inferred resource of 8.1 million tonnes of rare-earth-bearing alluvium at Pata Gangaram in Telangana's Bhadradri Kothagudem district, with an average TREE grade of 746 ppm. The Times of India reports the finding is at the G3 inferred stage, not proven or commercially mineable, and not yet notified for auction. Three more areas in Telangana have been identified for further rare earth exploration, and two critical mineral blocks in Sangareddy district have already been auctioned. The Centre has outlined measures to speed up critical mineral project auctions, including financial incentives for states.