Centre confirms rare earth mineral discovery in Purulia, plans auction
Times of India | 8 August 2026
Kolkata: A substantial deposit of rare earth minerals, including caesium, lithium and rubidium, has been found in Jhalda-II block of Purulia, Centre has informed Parliament.
In a written reply to a question by BJP Rajya Sabha MP Samik Bhattacharya, Union minister of state for coal and mines Satish Chandra Dubey said around 1.78 lakh tonnes of ore had been identified in the block. The ore contains 0.4% caesium, 0.3% lithium and 0.1% rubidium, with total metallic content estimated at 0.8%.
Although the rare earth deposit in Purulia is relatively small, the development is significant as India looks to reduce dependence on imports of critical minerals essential for electric vehicles (EVs), electronics and renewable energy technologies.
The block has already been identified for auction. Centre said its proximity to railway networks, national highways and Ranchi airport makes the site economically viable for mining operations.
Govt also informed Parliament that 10 potential rare-mineral projects are at various stages in Purulia and Bankura. Necessary approval processes for these projects have also been completed, the minister said.
A year ago, Geological Survey of India (GSI) said it had begun advanced exploration for rare earth minerals in Purulia.
GSI conducted G2-level exploration in Purulia block. The G2 stage represents an advanced level of exploration, providing a fairly high degree of confidence in resource estimation. After completion, GSI submitted findings to state mines department and Union ministry of mines for further action.