Vedanta launches portable rigs for gold and critical mineral exploration in Chhattisgarh

Vedanta Limited, one of India’s leading diversified mining firms, has deployed a fleet of portable drilling rigs in Chhattisgarh to assess the presence of gold and other critical minerals. The rigs, designed for rapid mobilisation, will be moved across multiple prospective zones identified in the state’s mineral‑rich belt.

The move aligns with the government’s push to boost domestic production of strategic minerals such as lithium, cobalt and rare earths, alongside traditional commodities like gold. By using mobile rigs, Vedanta aims to accelerate the exploration phase, reduce upfront capital outlay, and gather geoscientific data that could inform future mining projects.

Vedanta officials said the deployment follows all requisite clearances from the Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation and the Ministry of Mines. The company plans to complete the initial survey within the next few months, after which detailed feasibility studies will be undertaken.

Local authorities expect the activity to generate ancillary employment and stimulate service demand in nearby towns, although the firm has not disclosed specific job creation figures.

If the exploratory work confirms viable deposits, Vedanta could seek to develop full‑scale mining operations, contributing to India’s goal of reducing reliance on imports for critical mineral inputs.