Andhra Pradesh signs pact for lithium, gallium exploration in Kadapa Basin.

The Andhra Pradesh government recently signed an agreement with the CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) for extensive exploration of lithium and gallium deposits in the Kadapa Basin, officials said.

The state government also signed a separate agreement with IIT (ISM) Dhanbad-TEXMiN to establish a Centre of Excellence for mining in Andhra Pradesh.

The pact with CSIR-NGRI will facilitate detailed studies on the presence of lithium and gallium in and around Vempalle in the Kadapa Basin. Preliminary research by the institute in Thummalapalle and surrounding areas has indicated traces of the two critical minerals.

The exploration is aimed at assessing the extent and potential of these mineral deposits, which are considered important for a range of advanced industrial and technology applications.

The proposed Centre of Excellence is expected to further strengthen the state's capabilities in mining-related research, technology and innovation.