Bhubaneswar, Feb 19: At a time when gold prices are soaring during the wedding season, Odisha has received a glittering piece of news. The state government on Thursday confirmed in the Legislative Assembly that gold deposits have been identified across seven districts, raising hopes of future mining activity.

Responding to questions from legislators, Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena revealed that preliminary surveys conducted by the Odisha Mining Corporation have indicated the presence of gold-bearing rocks in several regions. The most significant find is in Mayurbhanj district’s Madansahi-Kanjia mine, where reserves of 1,462 kilograms and 730 grams of gold have been estimated.

Exploration activities are underway in Devgarh’s Adas-Rampali, Keonjhar’s Gopur-Jaladihi, and Mayurbhanj’s Madansahi-Kanjia areas. In addition, surveys have pointed to potential deposits in Keonjhar (Gazipur, Saleikana, Dimirimunda), Mayurbhanj (Yashipur, Suriyaguda, Ruaansi, Idelkucha, Maredihi, Suleipat, Badam hill), Sundargarh (Digjharan, Maldihi, Ghoghar, Giringikela), Koraput (Rongpant, Garia, Dashmantpur), Malkangiri (Sunapadar, Kyang, Govindapalli), Angul (Mankadchua, Tikira, Somakoi), Boudh (Kudgaon, Jahnpank, Ramgad), Sambalpur (Kendukhunti, Kuntarbahal), and Devgarh (Sunakeni, Nikitamala, Gaila).

The Minister noted that these clusters together hold scattered deposits of gold ore, though detailed exploration and feasibility studies are still required before extraction can begin. The announcement has generated excitement among residents, who see the discovery as a potential boost to Odisha’s economy.

Legislators highlighted the importance of transparent and timely mining operations, pointing out that the state’s mineral wealth could significantly contribute to employment, industrial growth, and revenue generation. However, questions remain on when the government will begin commercial extraction, with public attention now fixed on the timeline for mining approvals.

Also Read: Dharmendra Pradhan Urges Odisha CM To Develop Sambalpur & Angul Clusters As City Economic Regions

The discovery underscores Odisha’s mineral-rich profile, already known for coal, iron ore, bauxite, and chromite. If harnessed effectively, the newly identified gold reserves could add a fresh dimension to the state’s resource economy, balancing industrial expansion with local welfare.