Why in the News?

• Gold ore deposits were discovered in the Mahgawan and Keolari areas of Sihora tehsil, Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh, during an intensive survey conducted by the Geological Survey of India (GSI).

Key Points:

Survey and Findings:

⇒ Although iron ore is abundant in the region, gold ore has been reported for the first time, with geologists finding small quantities alongside iron ore.

⇒ The gold deposits in Jabalpur are spread across an estimated 100 hectares, with experts speculating that the quantity could reach lakhs of tonnes.

⇒ Preliminary soil sampling has also revealed the presence of copper and other valuable metals in the region.

Proximity to Other Gold Projects:

⇒ The discovery of gold in Jabalpur is notable because of its close proximity to the Imliya gold and base metal block project in Dhimarkheda, Katni district, which borders Jabalpur.

⇒ This geographical continuity makes the finding of gold ore in Jabalpur's border areas unsurprising.

⇒ The Imliya gold mine, leased for 50 years, suggests that nearby areas such as Mahgawan and Keolari may have similar mineral profiles.

Significance:

⇒ The discovery of gold could lead to increased mineral exploration in Madhya Pradesh, adding gold to the already known reserves of iron ore and manganese in the region.

⇒ This discovery has the potential to significantly boost the local economy and establish Jabalpur as a key mineral-rich zone in India.

Mineral Resources in Madhya Pradesh:

• Madhya Pradesh is the only state in India with active diamond mining, with the renowned Panna mines.
• It is also the leading producer of copper concentrate, diaspore, pyrophyllite, manganese ore, limestone, and clay (others).
• The State hosts the country's 90% diamond, 74% diaspore, 55% laterite, 48% pyrophyllite, 41% molybdenum, 27% dolomite, 19% copper ore, 18% fireclay, 12% manganese, and 8% rock phosphate ore resources.