The Ministry of Science and Technology announced the discovery of 1,600 tonnes lithium reserves in Karnataka’s Mandya and Yadgiri districts. The Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD) located these resources in the Marlagalla area of Mandya through initial surveys and subsurface exploration.
AMD is exploring other potential lithium sources in India, including Korba district in Chhattisgarh, mica belts in Rajasthan, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh, and pegmatite belts in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka.
Lithium, a highly valuable element used in batteries and other technologies, is known for its reactivity with water and potential toxicity. Additionally, AMD’s recent survey in Himachal Pradesh revealed surface uranium in Masanbal, Hamirpur district. However, there are currently no plans by the Atomic Energy Commission to establish an atomic energy plant in Himachal Pradesh.
Additionally, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is exploring various small modular reactors (SMRs). Private firms have shown limited interest in producing SMRs, though some are considering using small reactors at their sites. India and Russia are exploring collaborations on peaceful nuclear energy uses, including SMRs.