Bhubaneswar: A recent geological survey has revealed the presence of gold reserves in as many as eighteen locations across Odisha. The gold deposits have been identified in several districts, many of which are tribal-dominated and economically backward. These include Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh, Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Boudh, and Angul.
The Geological Survey of India (GSI), in collaboration with the State Geological Department, conducted an extensive study to map these resources. Notably, high-grade platinum deposits have also been detected in the mineral-rich Keonjhar district, adding to the state’s vast mineral wealth.
The survey has identified significant gold deposits in multiple locations, with the highest concentrations found in Aradangi, Dimirmuda, Telkoi, Gopura, Gajaipur, Saleikana, Singpur, and Kusakala within Keonjhar district. In addition, notable gold reserves have been detected in Suleipat, Suruda, Jashipur, and Suriaguda areas of Mayurbhanj district.
The first aerial survey to assess gold reserves in Odisha was conducted in 2007. Since then, interest in mining these deposits has grown considerably. As many as eighteen private companies have submitted applications seeking permission to explore and extract these mineral resources. However, despite the interest from private enterprises, the state government has yet to grant any formal approval for mining operations.
Meanwhile, the search for diamond reserves in Odisha has also yielded promising results. The world’s leading diamond producer, De Beers, carried out a survey in January 2010 to assess the potential for diamond deposits in the state.
The study led to the discovery of Kimberlite and Lamproite formations—geological structures known for hosting diamonds—in the districts of Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Nuapada, and Bolangir. Kimberlite and Lamproite are varieties of micaceous peridotite, a rock type that is rich in magnesium and low in silica, and is commonly associated with diamond deposits.
Despite these significant findings, there has been little progress in initiating diamond mining activities in the state. The exploration efforts have so far remained at the survey stage, with no substantial steps taken towards the extraction and commercial utilization of the discovered diamond reserves.
The identification of both gold and diamond reserves underscores Odisha’s immense potential as a mineral-rich state. However, for these resources to translate into economic growth and employment opportunities, further action will be required from the government and relevant stakeholders to facilitate responsible and sustainable mining operations.
