Naidu calls for comprehensive mineral mapping to identify high-value deposits in A.P

Published 30 June 2026 · politics

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to undertake comprehensive mineral mapping across the State to identify deposits of critical minerals, bulk

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to undertake comprehensive mineral mapping across the State to identify deposits of critical minerals, bulk minerals and other high-value metallic resources, while stressing the need to maximise revenue through value addition and scientific utilisation of the mineral wealth. Reviewing the Mines Department affairs at the Camp Office in Amaravati on Tuesday, the Chief Minister said the State should focus not only on the extraction of minerals but also on processing them within Andhra Pradesh to generate higher economic value. Prepare detailed mineral maps covering deposits of critical minerals, bulk minerals and precious metals across different regions of the state, he directed the officials. Value addition facilities Naidu said Andhra Pradesh possesses significant potential for market capitalisation of its mineral resources and suggested that the state-owned Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporation (APMDC) explore opportunities for commercialising valuable mineral assets.

He directed officials to undertake a detailed study in consultation with experts. The Chief Minister observed that substantial revenue could be generated by establishing value addition facilities for minerals such as beach sand, rare earth minerals, iron ore, manganese and alumina. Referring to mineral-rich States that have achieved revenue surpluses, he said Andhra Pradesh should formulate a dedicated policy on mineral value addition after extensive consultations. Emphasising that mineral processing industries should be established within the State to create employment and increase revenue, Mr. Naidu also proposed the formation of a cluster for rare earth minerals found in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Kerala, and called for a detailed assessment of reserves of high-value minerals such as titanium, ilmenite and monazite.

Highlighting the strategic importance of rare earth minerals, the Chief Minister said they are essential for manufacturing electronics, magnets, specialised equipment and components used in sectors including nuclear energy. He also directed the Mines Department to study additional gold-bearing blocks in the State, including areas around Jonnagiri and Chigurugunta in Chittoor district. 126 key locations identified Officials informed the Chief Minister that 126 locations containing critical, bulk and other valuable minerals have already been identified across the State. They also reported an 18% increase in mining revenue from current mining operations. Reviewing sand mining and supply, Mr. Naidu instructed officials to strengthen monitoring using advanced technology. He called for the installation of CCTV cameras at sand reaches, satellite-based surveillance and GPS tracking of vehicles transporting sand to prevent illegal mining and ensure transparency in supply.