GMRICS/GMDC has initiated a brownfield exploration program within its ten operational bauxite mines located around Gadhsisa, Kachchh, with the objective of assessing the mineral potential beneath the existing bauxite deposits. To explore deeper portions of these mines, preliminary investigations under the G4 exploration stage have been undertaken in Nana-Goniyasar, Wandh-1, and Wandh-2 mines. A test drilling of 580m has been completed in FY 25-26 and initial assessment has been made.
Considering the encouraging results in the test drilling of 580m, a detailed exploration campaign comprising approximately 4,000 metres of drilling in 40-50 boreholes on a systematic grid pattern has been taken up, accompanied by interval-based sampling and laboratory investigations. The outcome is expected to define the extent and quality of bentonite deposits, estimate reserves and resources, assess the economic potential of associated critical minerals, and facilitate preparation of future mining plans for integrated mineral development within the existing leasehold areas of Nana-Goniyasar, Wandh-1, and Wandh-2 mines.
In addition to the drilling upto the basement basalt, surface and subsurface sampling, and comprehensive physical, chemical, and mineralogical analyses aimed at identifying bentonite horizons and associated critical minerals have been taken up. The study seeks to establish bentonite as an additional mineral resource beneath bauxite and evaluate the occurrence of strategic minerals such as gallium, vanadium, titanium, and rare earth elements.
