Andhra Pradesh signs pact for lithium, gallium exploration in Kadapa Basin
Andhra Pradesh is stepping up critical mineral exploration with a ₹140-crore project to search for lithium and gallium deposits.
The Andhra Pradesh government signed agreements with the CSIR-NGRI and IIT (ISM) Dhanbad-TEXMiN on Wednesday to explore lithium and gallium deposits in the Kadapa Basin. The state is focusing on extensive exploration of critical minerals, such as lithium and gallium, while enhancing research, technology, and skill development in the mining sector.
Preliminary research by the NGRI indicated traces of these minerals in the vicinity of Vempalle within the Kadapa Basin, with lithium concentrations up to 1,000 parts per million (ppm) and gallium concentrations up to 250 ppm. The exploration project will be funded entirely by the National Mineral Exploration Trust, costing an estimated Rs 140 crore.
Additionally, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad will establish a Centre of Excellence for mining in Andhra Pradesh as part of the agreement.
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