Nearly 20 tonnes of gold reserves found in Odisha districts, auction to start soon

Odisha is emerging on the country’s mineral map as a fresh hub for gold exploration, with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) confirming significant reserves across several districts.

According to findings placed before the state assembly by Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, confirmed deposits have been identified in Deogarh’s Adasa-Rampalli region, Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, Keonjhar, Angul, and Koraput. Early-stage exploration is also underway in Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri, Sambalpur, and Boudh.

While the government has not disclosed official estimates, geologists suggest Odisha could be sitting on 10 to 20 metric tonnes of reserves. Though modest compared to India’s annual gold imports of 700–800 tonnes, the discovery is notable, given the country’s meagre domestic output of just 1.6 tonnes a year as of 2020.

Economic Significance

Officials believe that even small-scale production could spur employment, infrastructure development, and new business opportunities in mining belts. For Odisha, already a leader in chromite, bauxite, and iron ore, the addition of gold strengthens its mineral portfolio and opens avenues for economic diversification.

Government Roadmap

The state, in collaboration with the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) and GSI, is preparing to put its first gold mining block in Deogarh up for auction. Exploration has now moved from reconnaissance to advanced sampling and drilling stages to assess the commercial viability of the deposits.

Authorities outlined the next steps, which include:

• Detailed lab analysis to determine ore grade and recovery rates.
• Feasibility reviews by technical committees.
• Transparent auctions under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act.
• Environmental and social impact studies.
• Creation of road, power and water facilities around proposed mining zones.

The Bigger Picture

Experts caution that Odisha’s reserves will not only dramatically cut India’s dependence on imports but also stated that the finding marks a strategic breakthrough in tapping local resources. 

If viable, the projects could become a catalyst for regional development while strengthening the state’s reputation as a mineral powerhouse.