Karnataka’s latest mineral exploration drive is raising expectations of new gold reserves and future mining prospects, with Koppal and Ballari among the districts where promising traces of gold have already been detected. The survey has also yielded gold indications in Haveri, Mandya, and Chitradurga, strengthening the possibility of identifying new mining zones in the state.
The state, already India’s leading gold producer, is intensifying its search through a large-scale exploration covering 16,350 hectares across 19 locations for gold, uranium, bauxite, copper, and other minerals, marking Karnataka’s biggest exploration effort to date.
Nearly 14,000 hectares of this area are being examined exclusively for gold. “We have early signs of gold, particularly in districts like Koppal, but the exact extent will be known only after the exploration is completed,” a senior mining department official said.
Karnataka currently has two major gold mines, Hatti and the now-closed Kolar Gold Fields. Discovering new mining pockets is crucial for sustaining future production.
The project is being funded by the state government and the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET), with Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited and Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited participating.
Officials explained that the survey process begins with large-scale Reconnaissance Surveys, followed by preliminary and general exploration, and concludes with detailed exploration where ore reserves are estimated, an essential step before any mining activity can be considered.
The exploration is at different stages across these locations, and in some areas, reserve estimates may take up to two years. Meanwhile, 52 additional locations are being shortlisted for reconnaissance surveys for gold, copper, and other minerals. Potential sites include Dakshina Kannada, Belagavi, Hesaraghatta in Bengaluru Rural, Vijayanagara, Chamarajanagar, Holehonnur in Shivamogga, Kalaburgi, and others.
Many of these areas fall within forest department limits, and surveys can begin only after obtaining clearance, strictly for exploration and testing purposes, not mining.
Rangappa S, Director of the Department of Mines and Geology, told TNIE that exploration had slowed over the years as the department shifted its focus toward revenue collection. “If new pockets are not identified, the revenue stream will dry up as older mines wind down. We are also exploring uranium, lithium, and other minerals of national importance. Identifying new mining zones will not only strengthen revenue but also create employment opportunities for local communities,” he said.