Deccan Gold Mines has reported preliminary exploration results indicating the potential for more than four million tonnes of mineralisation at its Bhalukona project in Chhattisgarh’s Mahasamund district. The findings point to a potentially significant deposit of nickel, copper and platinum group elements, although further exploration is needed to establish its size and commercial viability.
Preliminary Modelling Indicates Nickel-Copper Mineralisation
The company’s geological modelling of drilling data suggests mineralisation grading approximately 0.24% nickel equivalent. This measure combines the weighted contributions of nickel, copper, platinum and palladium.
The current estimate covers near-surface mineralisation across about 300 to 350 metres of a 1.3-kilometre mineralised corridor identified at Bhalukona. Deccan Gold said the modelling does not include possible extensions or repetitions of the mineralised sequence indicated by geophysical surveys.
Exploration Work at the Bhalukona Project
The Bhalukona-Jamnidih block covers around 30 square kilometres in Basana tehsil of Mahasamund district. Deccan Gold received a composite licence for the area in April 2025, allowing the company to explore for minerals and subsequently mine them, subject to applicable approvals.
Since March 2026, the company has completed 15 diamond-core drilling holes totalling 2,773 metres. The exploration programme has also included geophysical surveys and geological mapping to assess the mineralised zone.
Further Work Needed to Confirm the Deposit
The company said the results are preliminary exploration-stage estimates and do not constitute a formally established mineral resource or reserve. Additional drilling, geological evaluation and technical assessment will be required to determine the deposit’s extent, continuity and economic potential.
The findings could support India’s efforts to strengthen domestic access to critical minerals. However, the project’s contribution to supply will depend on further exploration and whether the mineralisation can ultimately be developed economically.
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