Archive · 20 Aug 2026
Andhra Pradesh Plans Rare Earth Minerals Hub and Magnet Manufacturing
Andhra Pradesh wants to use minerals found in parts of the state to build a new industry.
Some of these minerals can help make permanent magnets.
Permanent magnets are used in many machines and technologies.
Experts said the North Andhra coast may contain several useful minerals.
They want private companies to invest in mining and processing them.
They also suggested special university courses to train workers.
Minister Kollu Ravindra said the government is studying these ideas.
He will share the proposals with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and arrange an inspection of an Indian Rare Earths Limited facility.
Andhra Pradesh is examining ways to develop its rare earth mineral resources and manufacture permanent magnets locally.
Minister Kollu Ravindra received a proposal from experts led by former atomic energy scientist Prof. Yugandhar Rao.
The delegation identified North Andhra coastal deposits of ilmenite, rutile, zircon, garnet, sillimanite and monazite.
The experts called for private investment, specialised university courses and support under the National Critical Mineral Policy 2026.
Ravindra said the proposals would be presented to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and that the Indian Rare Earths Limited facility would be inspected.
- Who
- Andhra Pradesh Mines, Geology and Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra, along with experts led by Prof. Yugandhar Rao, Andhra University representatives and state officials.
- What
- The state is examining development of rare earth minerals and local manufacturing of permanent magnets.
- When
- The minister made the remarks on Thursday; no specific date was provided.
- Where
- At the Andhra Pradesh Secretariat in Vijayawada, with proposed mineral development focused on the North Andhra coast.
- Why
- To develop mineral resources, attract private investment, create local manufacturing capacity and build technical expertise.
- State
- Andhra Pradesh
- Minister
- Kollu Ravindra, mines, geology and excise minister
- Proposed products
- Permanent magnets
- Minerals identified
- Ilmenite, rutile, zircon, garnet, sillimanite and monazite
- Proposed support
- National Critical Mineral Policy 2026
- Training proposal
- Specialised university courses on rare earth minerals and permanent magnets
- Next steps
- Presenting the proposals to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and inspecting the Indian Rare Earths Limited facility