Vedanta Secures Strategic Manganese Block in Andhra Pradesh

Vedanta has successfully secured a strategic manganese block in Andhra Pradesh via an auction process, marking a significant win in the mineral exploration sector. The Punnam block, covering 152 hectares, is presently at the G4 level, or reconnaissance stage of exploration, indicating broad surveying to pinpoint potential mineral-rich areas.

Declared as the preferred bidder by the Department of Mines & Geology, Vedanta now anticipates the grant of a composite license. This approval hinges on meeting various conditions, such as submitting a performance bank guarantee, obtaining statutory clearances, and completing necessary agreements with the Andhra Pradesh state government.

The composite license, melding prospecting and mining rights, offers Vedanta the capability to both explore and, pending successful and viable findings, engage in mining operations. With operations across several countries, Vedanta remains at the forefront of critical minerals, transition metals, and technological advancements.