Archive · 20 Jan 2026
Andhra Pradesh to identify mineral-rich areas
The government of Andhra Pradesh had a meeting to talk about finding more minerals in the state.
They decided to use science to find areas with lots of minerals.
They will hire experts and use special technology to help.
They also decided to use a special website to sell these minerals to companies.
The goal is to make the process faster and more transparent, so the state can make more money from these minerals.
The minister in charge is very hopeful that Andhra Pradesh will become a leader in this area.
Andhra Pradesh to conduct statewide scientific identification of mineral potential areas (MPAs) through a comprehensive desktop study.
Appointment of a full-time CEO for MERIT to ensure efficient management of operations.
Recruitment of qualified geologists and technical experts, with a focus on advanced technologies like remote sensing.
Empanelment of at least five qualified National Private Exploration Agencies (NPEAs) for a period of five years.
Auction of major mineral blocks to be conducted through the MSTC e-auction platform for transparency and wider participation.
- Who
- Minerals Exploration, Research & Innovation Trust (MERIT) Governing Council, presided by Kollu Ravindra
- What
- Decisions to strengthen mineral exploration in Andhra Pradesh
- When
- Monday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- Secretariat, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
- Why
- To speed up mineral identification, improve auction process, and enhance state revenues
- Location
- Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
- Meeting Presided By
- Kollu Ravindra (Minister for mines, geology and excise)
- Objective
- Identify mineral potential areas (MPAs) for auction
- Funding Source
- MERIT resources
- Key Appointment
- Full-time CEO for MERIT
- Technical Enhancements
- Recruitment of geologists and technical experts, advanced technologies like remote sensing
- Exploration Agencies
- Empanel at least five qualified National Private Exploration Agencies (NPEAs) for five years
- Auction Platform
- MSTC e-auction platform