Over 120 locations in AP said to possess Critical, Bulk & other Minerals
Reviewing the performance of the Mines Department at the Camp Office chief minister Mr N Chandrababu Naidu has directed his officials to take up comprehensive mineral mapping across the state to identify valuable mineral deposits.
Emphasising on promoting value addition through mineral processing Mr Naidu said that Andhra Pradesh’s vast mineral wealth offers significant opportunities for market capitalisation.
The Chief Minister noted that substantial revenue could be generated by adding value to minerals such as beach sand, rare earth minerals, iron ore, manganese and alumina.
He suggested that the state-owned Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporation (APMDC) explore avenues for market capitalization of valuable mineral assets and directed officials to undertake a detailed study with the assistance of experts.
The chief minister observed that several Indian states have achieved revenue surpluses primarily through mineral-based income and called for a comprehensive policy focused on mineral value addition.
Scouting for Mineral Wealth
Officials informed the CM that 126 locations containing critical, bulk and other valuable minerals have already been identified across the state.
They similarly reported an 18% increase in mining revenue through improved mining operations.
The CM however stressed that processing and value addition should take place within Andhra Pradesh to maximize economic benefits and generate employment.
Rare Earth Cluster
Mr Naidu also proposed establishing a cluster for rare earth minerals found in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Kerala.
He instructed officials to assess reserves of high-value minerals such as titanium, ilmenite and monazite.
These rare earth minerals are essential for manufacturing electronics, magnets, and other advanced products, while also playing a strategic role in sectors such as nuclear energy and national security.
Highlighting the state’s potential in gold mining, the Chief Minister pointed out the gold reserves at Jonnagiri and Chigurugunta in Chittoor district and directed officials to study the remaining mineral blocks for future exploration.
In addition, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure strict regulation of mining activities and maximize revenue from the state’s mineral resources.
Sand Mining
He also ordered comprehensive monitoring of sand mining and supply through advanced technology.
This includes installing CCTV cameras at sand reaches, using satellite imagery for regular analysis and implementing GPS tracking for vehicles transporting sand.
The Chief Minister observed that the government has foregone nearly Rs 1,000 crore in annual revenue by providing sand free of cost for the benefit of the public.
He instructed officials to ensure that the free sand policy is implemented transparently and that the public receives its intended benefits without misuse.
Minister for Mines Mr Kollu Ravindra, Chief Secretary Mr G. Sai Prasad, Principal Secretaries Mr Mukesh Kumar Meena (Mines) and Mr Piyush Kumar (Finance) along with other senior officials were present.
