GSI’s Breakthrough: Bauxite, Limestone, and Rare Earth Elements Found in Meghalaya
First Published: 30th March, 2025 12:46 IST
While the overall quantity of bauxite in Meghalaya ranges from low to moderate, its grade is classified as moderate.
The Geological Survey of India (GSI), North Eastern Region, has made groundbreaking mineral discoveries across Meghalaya, boosting the state’s economic and industrial prospects. According to S.T. Narahari, Director of TC (SU: Meghalaya), recent reconnaissance surveys have confirmed the presence of bauxite in the Garo Hills, while additional deposits have been identified in West Khasi Hills and East Khasi Hills.
In West Khasi Hills’ Rymrai area, GSI has inferred bauxite resources, and another site in an East Khasi Hills village has revealed a sizable deposit. While the overall quantity of bauxite in Meghalaya ranges from low to moderate, its grade is classified as moderate.
Limestone reserves in the state have also shown promising results. High-grade deposits are concentrated in Lithium Valley, East Jaintia Hills, with smaller occurrences in East Khasi Hills, particularly in Cherrapunjee. GSI’s exploration of 29 blocks in East Jaintia Hills has uncovered 566.04 million tons of limestone. A single block in Cherrapunjee holds an estimated 71.78 million tons. With these findings, Meghalaya’s total limestone resources now stand at an impressive 5737.82 million tons, further solidifying the state’s reputation for high-quality limestone.
GSI is also intensifying efforts to explore rare earth element (REE) mineralization. Meghalaya’s uranium deposits are primarily concentrated in Domiasiat, where significant sandstone formations house these valuable resources.
Additionally, GSI is investigating the presence of Germanium and Lithium, elements crucial for modern technology. Studies suggest that these elements are often found in coal sediments. Earlier research by GSI’s CHQ division uncovered anomalous levels of Germanium in coal pits across Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo Hills. To pinpoint the most viable deposits, GSI has launched a preliminary survey to identify specific high-potential zones.
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