Lithium Reserve Discovered in J&K
Recently Geological Survey of India (GSI) has discovered Lithium deposits in Jammu and Kashmir.
For the first time, GSI has estimated lithium reserves in the Salal-Haimana area of Reasi district in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
According to GSI, this reserve is in early exploration stage, that is, it is of G3 category. It is estimated to have 5.9 million tonnes of lithium.
Lithium is also called white gold. It is the first alkali mineral in the periodic table. It is a non-ferrous metal.
It is the lightest solid metal. It is extracted from brine (saline water) or mined rocks. Its density is the lowest among all metals.
Bolivia (most), Chile and Argentina account for 50 percent of global lithium resources. These three countries of South America are called Lithium Triangle.
Australia is the world leader in lithium production. India has discovered its first lithium deposits in igneous rocks located in the Marlagalla-Allapatna area in Mandya district of Karnataka.
Importance of Lithium-
- It is a core component of rechargeable batteries (useful in EVs) and energy storage solutions.
- Lithium oxide is used in special glasses and glass ceramics.
- This is a very important mineral for energy transition. Also, there will be a heavy dependence on lithium in achieving the goal of net zero emissions.
GSI is an attached office of the Ministry of Mines. GSI was established in 1851. It was initially set up to locate coal reserves for the Railways. Its headquarter is in Kolkata. It has six regional offices across the country. It is the scientific organization of India carrying out geological activities.
Source – PIB
