Auction of Lithium block found in Reasi not successful so far: Reddy

Srinagar, July 24: The central government revealed on Wednesday that the auction for a significant lithium block in Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir, has yet to be successful. Mining and production activities will only commence following a successful auction.
In a written response, Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, disclosed that the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified an inferred resource (G3) of 5.9 million tonnes of lithium ore in the Salal-Haimna areas of Reasi district. The lithium ore has an average grade of 583 ppm, with a cutoff of lithium (Li) at ≥ 200 ppm within bauxite.
The minister highlighted that the cost of mining per tonne will be set by the successful lessee. Currently, the market price of lithium carbonate internationally is around USD 15,000 per tonne.
The discovery of lithium in Jammu & Kashmir is considered a major development, potentially positioning India as a key player in the global lithium market, which is crucial for green energy technologies. However, the future of this potential advancement hinges on the successful auction and subsequent mining operations by the lessee.