Telangana Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka Launches Gold and Copper Exploration in Karnataka’s Devadurga

Hyderabad: Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has formally launched mineral exploration activities for gold and copper at Devadurga in Karnataka’s Raichur district, with Singareni Collieries Company Limited taking up the project.

The exploration is being carried out in the Lingadahalli area of Devadurga taluk. The initiative is aimed at assessing the availability of gold and copper deposits and determining the potential for future mining operations. Bhatti Vikramarka visited the exploration site and reviewed the activities being undertaken there.

The project has attracted attention because of Singareni’s involvement in mineral exploration beyond its traditional coal-mining operations. The company secured exploration rights for the Devadurga block through a tender process conducted by the central government. With more than a century of experience in mining, Singareni is now using that expertise to examine the mineral potential of the Karnataka block.

Focus on Gold and Copper Reserves

During the programme, Bhatti Vikramarka stressed the importance of making effective use of India’s mineral resources. He expressed confidence that successful exploration could open the way for the extraction of commercially significant quantities of gold and copper.

The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted the possible economic benefits for the surrounding region. If the exploration establishes viable deposits and eventually progresses into mining, the project could generate employment opportunities for young people in the area and contribute to local economic development.

However, the current activity remains at the exploration stage. The quantity and commercial viability of any gold or copper resources will depend on the results of detailed geological investigations and subsequent assessments.

Singareni Strengthens Mineral Exploration Role

Singareni has a long history in the mining sector, and the Devadurga project represents another step in expanding its activities into mineral exploration. The company’s successful bid for the exploration block has allowed it to begin systematic work in an area considered to have potential for gold and copper.

Singareni Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Budha Prakash Jyoti also participated in the programme. He recalled his earlier association with the area, noting that he had previously worked there as a police officer. He said it was particularly significant for him to return to the region in his current role and oversee the beginning of gold and copper exploration.

The project is expected to involve continued field investigations and monitoring as the company works to understand the geological characteristics of the block.

New Site Office and Helipad Planned

To improve supervision and coordination of exploration activities, Singareni plans to establish a dedicated site office at the project location. A helipad is also expected to be developed, according to the Deputy Chief Minister.

The proposed infrastructure is intended to support the management and monitoring of operations as exploration work progresses. The development of facilities at the site could also make it easier for officials and project teams to oversee activities in the mining block.

Bhatti Vikramarka further referred to the cultural connections between communities living on either side of the Krishna River. He called for cooperation from local residents and said that collective support would be important for successfully taking the project forward.

Potential Economic Impact

The Devadurga exploration project could become significant if substantial gold and copper deposits are confirmed. Beyond the value of the minerals themselves, a commercially successful mining operation could create direct and indirect employment, support local businesses and contribute to infrastructure development.

For Singareni, the project also provides an opportunity to demonstrate its capabilities in mineral exploration outside coal. The outcome of the geological investigations will determine whether the Devadurga block can eventually support large-scale mining.

Before that stage is reached, exploration teams will need to establish the extent, quality and accessibility of the mineralisation. The findings will be crucial in deciding the future direction of the project.

Bhatti Visits Local Temple

Before concluding his visit, Bhatti Vikramarka held a review meeting with officials after arriving in Lingadahalli. He also visited the historic Sri Paramananda Shiva Temple in the village and offered special prayers. Local leaders welcomed the Deputy Chief Minister during his visit.

The launch marks the beginning of what could become a strategically important mineral exploration effort involving Telangana’s Singareni organisation in Karnataka. For now, the focus remains on determining the resource potential of the Devadurga block, while the government and the company look ahead to the possibility of employment generation, regional development and greater utilisation of domestic mineral resources.