Chhattisgarh has positioned itself as a leader in mineral governance, driven by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s vision of transparency, innovation, and sustainability, which has catalyzed remarkable economic growth.

Between April 2024 and February 2025, the state achieved mineral revenues of ₹11,581 crore, showcasing a 30-fold increase since its inception and building upon the ₹13,000 crore revenue of fiscal year 2023-24.

This impressive achievement is attributed to digitized policies, strategic e-auctions, and eco-friendly mining practices.

A significant milestone this fiscal year was the successful e-auction of 44 mineral blocks, including India’s inaugural lithium block located in the Katghora region of Korba. Awarded to South Mykey Mining Company at a 76% premium, this lithium reserve highlights Chhattisgarh’s pivotal role in supporting the National Critical Minerals Mission.

Furthermore, ten essential and deep-seated mineral blocks—comprising gold, nickel-chromium, graphite, and glauconite—have been auctioned, with ongoing explorations for additional lithium reserves in Sukma and Korba. The Bailadila region, known for housing the largest iron ore reserves in India, is undergoing the final stages of e-auctions for three new iron ore blocks, anticipated to conclude by March 2025. At the same time, the Hahaladdi iron ore block in Kanker district is also approaching its auction’s final phase, strengthening Chhattisgarh’s position as a hub for steelmaking resources.

To ensure industrial growth aligns with ecological responsibility, the state has implemented satellite surveillance and a Mining Surveillance System to combat illegal activities. A ‘star rating’ initiative encourages leaseholders to adopt sustainable practices, while systematic quarrying protocols work to reduce environmental impacts.

Revenues generated from mining are being reinvested into transformative community initiatives. The District Mineral Trust (DMT) allocated ₹1,673 crore in FY 2024-25 for 9,362 projects aimed at improving education, healthcare, infrastructure, and skill development in areas impacted by mining.

Chhattisgarh is actively advancing mineral exploration with 13 ongoing projects, helping to uncover reserves of 283 million tonnes of limestone, 67 million tonnes of iron ore, and 300,000 tonnes of bauxite. Surveys for gold, graphite, and glauconite are in progress, while proposals for uranium exploration in Surajpur’s Jajawal and coal bed methane licenses in Koriya are awaiting approval.

In alignment with the National Mineral Exploration Trust, the state intends to create its own exploration entity to promote the development of minor minerals.

With 28 mineral varieties, including coal, gold, and platinum group elements, Chhattisgarh is utilizing transparent governance and sustainable practices to reinforce its status as India’s mining capital.

“Under the guidance of CM Vishnu Deo Sai and PM Modi, our government’s commitment to innovation and inclusive growth is transforming mineral resources into long-term prosperity,” said Mahesh Gagda, former minister and senior BJP leader in Chhattisgarh.

As the state progresses towards green industrialization, Chhattisgarh’s framework of digital efficiency, environmental care, and social reinvestment is establishing a national standard, paving the way for sustainable growth in resource-rich regions.