By Soumya Ranjan 
The Geographical Survey of India has found huge lithium stores in Nayagarh, Odisha, possibly helping India’s EV battery creation and lessening dependence on imports. Simulated intelligence and robots are being utilized for investigation.
Reports from ongoing geological overviews have alluded to the presence of important lithium stores in Odisha’s Nayagarh district. The Geographical Survey of India (GSI) has supposedly distinguished these hints of the important mineral, which could situate the state as a critical player in India’s lithium investigation.
Endeavors by the GSI are in progress in Odisha to pinpoint ideal locales for lithium extraction as India government focuses on the investigation of vital minerals to support the country’s confidence in these areas.
In an innovative attempt to revolutionise mineral discovery, the GSI has started using Artificial Intelligence (AI) alongside drones to unearth the valuable mineral resources, such as lithium and copper, found beneath the state’s rich soil
A pilot project has been started in Mayurbhanj district which is home to several valuable minerals. After Mayurbhanj, the government plans to undertake mining surveys also in southern Odisha, specifically in districts like Kandhamal and Malkangiri.
The Geological Survey of India (GSI) is leading the charge in the search for lithium particularly intense in Nayagarh district. The discovery of lithium reserves in Odisha, is expected to boost the domestic electric vehicle (EV) battery production. This could potentially reduce India’s reliance on lithium imports for EV batteries and strengthen the country’s EV supply chain.
Apart from lithium, there have been reports of gold deposits being found in various districts of Odisha, including Deogarh, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has been involved in explorations of these minerals.
Meanwhile, a preliminary meeting of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has commenced in Bhubaneswar, setting the stage for the forthcoming two-day summit of mining ministers in Konark. At the summit, delegates will also explore new technologies and methods to enhance efficiency in mining operations. The outcomes of this summit are anticipated to guide the future of mining practices across India.
Odisha has been lauded for its mining operations, which are regarded as a benchmark across the nation.
Commenting on Odisha’s mining, L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, the Ministry of Mines said, “Supplying approximately 50% of India’s minerals, Odisha has solidified its standing as the country’s mining capital.”