Devadurga Exploration has begun with a new gold and copper mineral exploration programme at Lingadahalli village in Devadurga taluk of Raichur district, Karnataka. The project was launched on 27 August 2026 and marks an important expansion into mineral exploration by Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), a major state-owned mining company. The exploration programme covers an area of around 199.13 square kilometres and focuses on studying the potential availability of valuable gold and copper resources.

Devadurga Exploration Project

The Devadurga Exploration project is located in a mineral-bearing region of Raichur district in Karnataka. The exploration block was allotted through an auction process conducted under the Union Ministry of Mines. The selected area will now undergo detailed geological studies to understand the presence, quality and estimated quantity of gold and copper deposits.

Mineral exploration is an important first step before any commercial mining activity can begin. Scientists and technical teams study rock formations, collect samples and conduct surveys to identify underground mineral resources. The information collected during this stage helps authorities and companies decide whether further development and mining activities are possible.

Gold and copper are among the important metallic minerals used across several sectors. Gold has long been valued for jewellery, investment and industrial applications, while copper plays a major role in electrical systems, electronics, renewable energy infrastructure and manufacturing.

SCCL Expands Beyond Coal Mining

Singareni Collieries Company Limited is widely known for its long history in coal mining. With more than 136 years of experience, the company has played an important role in India’s coal and energy sector. The Devadurga project represents a new direction for SCCL as it enters the field of gold and copper exploration.

The move also reflects a wider trend in India, where mining and public sector companies are increasingly exploring new mineral resources. As the country expands its renewable energy systems, electric mobility, electronics manufacturing and infrastructure projects, the demand for minerals such as copper and other strategic resources is expected to remain important.

The exploration of new mineral blocks can help improve geological knowledge and support long-term planning for domestic resource development.

Agreement and Administrative Steps

An exploration agreement for the Devadurga block was signed in Bengaluru on 6 August 2026. The agreement involved the Karnataka Mines and Geology Department and Singareni Collieries Company Limited. The exploration licence was later announced by SCCL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Buddha Prakash Jyoti during Independence Day celebrations on 15 August 2026.

Following the launch of the programme, officials were directed to establish a dedicated site office in the Devadurga area. Plans also included logistical facilities such as a helipad to support field visits, supervision and transportation in the exploration region.

These facilities can help technical teams and officials reach remote areas more easily during geological surveys and field operations.

Telangana and Karnataka Discuss Energy Cooperation

The developments around the exploration programme also came alongside discussions on energy cooperation between Telangana and Karnataka. Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka met Karnataka Energy Minister K. J. George to discuss possible cooperation involving SCCL and Karnataka Power Corporation Limited.

The discussions included the possibility of a joint venture connected with coal availability for thermal power plants. Energy security remains an important issue as Indian states work to meet growing electricity demand while also expanding renewable energy capacity.

Growing Focus on Mineral Exploration in India

India has been increasing its focus on mineral exploration as industries require a reliable supply of important raw materials. Government policies and mineral block auctions are helping identify new areas for geological surveys and possible future development.

The Devadurga Exploration programme is part of this broader effort to study India’s mineral potential. The project will focus on geological surveys, resource estimation and technical assessment before any future decision on large-scale extraction is considered.

With gold and copper playing important roles in different parts of the economy, the findings from the Devadurga block could add valuable information about the mineral resources available in the region and support future planning in India’s mining and industrial sectors.