Deccan Gold Mines Unearths India's First Ni-Cu-PGE Deposit

Bengaluru-based Deccan Gold Mines Ltd (DGML) has announced a landmark discovery—India’s first-ever find of Nickel–Copper–Platinum Group Element (Ni–Cu–PGE) sulphide mineralisation. The discovery was made in the Bhalukona–Jamnidih block in Chhattisgarh following extensive geochemical and geophysical exploration.

A potentially mineralised zone has been identified, with DGML set to begin test drilling to assess the scale and grade of the deposit. The find is a significant step forward in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in critical minerals essential for electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy technologies, and strategic industries.

DGML secured a 30 sq. km composite licence for the block in April 2025 and subsequently carried out geological mapping, rock chip sampling, drone-based magnetic surveys, and induced polarisation (IP) studies. Preliminary findings indicate a 700-metre-long mineralised zone hosted within mafic–ultramafic rock formations, with sulphide mineralisation extending to depths of approximately 300 metres.

Calling it a “proud moment for India,” DGML Managing Director Hanuma Prasad Modali said the discovery places India firmly on the global map for critical mineral exploration. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to responsible development, local community engagement, and value creation aligned with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.