In a major boost to India’s mineral wealth, Odisha has reported significant discoveries of precious stones, including diamonds and rubies. The announcement was made in the State Assembly by Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, bringing optimism amid the rising prices of gold and silver globally.
According to the minister, diamond-bearing stones have been identified in the Kalamidadar area of Nuapada district, while the ruby deposits have been traced in the Hinjilibahal–Jilingibahar region of Junagarh block in Kalahandi district. Minister Jena informed this in a written reply to a query raised by MLA Sanatan Mahakud in the state assembly.
The state government has, meanwhile, clarified that both sites are currently examining the technical and financial feasibility of mining them, and further steps will depend on the outcome of detailed surveys and feasibility studies.
Government sources have said the discovery of diamondiferous lamproite rock, which is known to contain diamonds, in the Kalmidadar area of Nuapada district. This significant find follows an intensive and sustained period of exploration efforts by geological teams in the region.
In a further boost to the state’s mineral prospects, geologists have also identified several potential satellite bodies of kimberlite and lamproite rocks. These formations, which potentially hold diamond deposits, were mapped around the localities of Pokhanpadar, Supuli, Bharuamunda, Kathiwadi, and Arkholi within the district.
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Gold and other minerals add to the good news
The minister also revealed the presence of gold deposits in multiple regions of the state. In Deogarh district’s Riamal block (Adas-Rampalli area), gold has been found alongside copper, graphite, and nickel. Similarly, traces of gold have been estimated in Mayurbhanj (Madanasahi–Kanjia area) and Keonjhar (Gopur–Jaldihi region).
Advanced surveys, including DGPS mapping and geological assessments, are currently underway in these areas. Mining operations are expected to begin only after completion of these evaluations.
Strong mineral reserves in Odisha
Odisha continues to remain one of India’s richest mineral hubs. As per official data, the state holds over 10,196 million tonnes of iron ore reserves, with an annual extraction rate of around 167.76 million tonnes, which is just 1.645% of total reserves. Additionally, Odisha has 311.57 million tonnes of chromite reserves, with an average annual production of 3.34 million tonnes.
The minister dismissed claims that Odisha’s mineral resources might be depleted by 2080, stating that no such assessment has been made.
With these fresh discoveries, Odisha is poised to strengthen its position as a key player in India’s mining and mineral sector.
