Tons of lithium deposits found in Karnataka's Mandya and Yadgiri districts
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Significant lithium deposits have been discovered in the Mandya and Yadgiri districts of Karnataka, according to Jitendra Singh, the Minister of State for Earth Sciences.
In a statement to the Rajya Sabha, Singh revealed that the Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), a unit under the Department of Atomic Energy, identified these resources.
Specifically, the Marlagalla area in Mandya district contains an estimated 1,600 tonnes of lithium at the G3 stage of exploration. Additionally, preliminary surveys and limited subsurface exploration have been conducted in the Yadgiri district to assess the extent of these deposits.
Singh also mentioned that AMD is conducting lithium exploration in other geological areas, including parts of Korba District in Chhattisgarh.
He highlighted that major mica belts in Rajasthan, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh, along with Pegmatite Belts in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka, are considered potential zones for lithium resources in India.
Singh also informed the parliament that a preliminary survey by AMD in Himachal Pradesh led to the discovery of surface uranium deposits in the Masanbal area of the Hamirpur district. He clarified, however, that the Atomic Energy Commission has not undertaken any studies to establish an atomic energy plant in Himachal Pradesh.
Regarding nuclear technology, Singh stated that the Department of Atomic Energy is monitoring global advancements in small modular reactors.
While various technologies and designs from foreign countries are being reviewed, there are currently no proposals to collaborate with international vendors. He noted that no private companies have expressed interest in producing small modular reactors, although some have shown interest in deploying them at their own sites.
The minister added that both the Indian and Russian governments are interested in expanding cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, including in the field of small modular reactors.
