Lithium Traces Found in Jharkhand’s Giridih; GSI Begins Assessment

Jharkhandinc Bureau

GIRIDIH, March 23: Lithium traces have been identified in the Asurhadi forest area under Tisri block of Jharkhand’s Giridih district, prompting a detailed assessment by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), officials said.

A GSI team led by senior official Asit Saha visited the site following preliminary indications of lithium presence during an ongoing geological survey.

GSI officials said samples have been collected and sent for laboratory analysis to determine the extent and quality of the deposits.

District administration and police officials were present during the inspection.

Officials said the findings are at a preliminary stage and confirmation of commercially viable reserves will depend on detailed exploration and technical studies.

District officials said the area had earlier witnessed illegal extraction of minor minerals, raising concerns over unregulated activity in parts of the forest region.

They said steps are being taken to secure the site and prevent unauthorised mining while assessment work continues.

Lithium is a key mineral used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, mobile devices and energy storage systems, and is considered important for the clean energy transition.

Officials said further survey and feasibility studies are underway.