Singareni Launches Gold and Copper Exploration in Karnataka

Telangana’s state-owned Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) has taken a significant step beyond its traditional coal-mining operations, launching an exploration programme for gold and copper deposits in Karnataka’s Raichur district.

Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka inaugurated the mineral exploration activities at Lingadahalli village in the Devadurga Block on Thursday and later inspected the areas identified for prospecting.

Singareni secured the exploration rights for the Devadurga Block through a tender process conducted by the Central government, Bhatti Vikramarka said. With nearly 136 years of experience in the mining sector, the company is expected to accelerate its exploration work in the region in the coming months.

The Deputy Chief Minister said the project could open up new opportunities if gold and copper are found in substantial quantities. A successful exploration programme could generate large-scale employment opportunities for local communities, support regional development and add to the country’s mineral resource base, he said.

To oversee the operations more closely, Singareni will soon establish a site office in Devadurga, with officials stationed locally to monitor the exploration activities. A helipad is also proposed to facilitate the movement of officials associated with the project.

Bhatti said construction work on the proposed facilities would begin once local revenue authorities allot the required land. He appealed to residents to cooperate with Singareni to ensure the smooth and speedy progress of the exploration programme.

During his visit, the Deputy Chief Minister inspected the locations earmarked for exploration within the Devadurga Gold Mineral Block. He also visited an exhibition displaying mineral samples collected by Singareni officials and sought details about the methods and plans being considered for the exploration and possible extraction of gold and copper.

Bhatti said the project had the potential to benefit both Telangana and Karnataka, while contributing to India’s mineral wealth and strengthening the wider economy.

Singareni CMD N. Balram expressed satisfaction over the launch of the exploration programme. SCCL, a public-sector coal mining company jointly owned by the Telangana and Union governments, has a 51% stake held by Telangana and 49% by the Centre.