Kolkata: After crude oil production at Ashoknagar, Bengal looks all set for another major exploration exercise, this time for manganese in Jhargram.The state Directorate of Mines & Minerals has approved a joint reconnaissance survey by central and state agencies across several pockets of Jhargram, with field investigations proposed between Sept 15 and 19. State-run manganese producer MOIL Ltd will coordinate the exercise with Geological Survey of India (GSI), Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), Directorate of Mines & Minerals and West Bengal Mineral Development and Trading Corporation Ltd (WBMDTCL).The areas identified for investigation include Simulpal, Labani, Bhandarchua, Panchas Foot Khadan, Chauga Pahar, Hasa Dungri, Chaukisal Pahar, Karka, Begundiha, Birmandal and Banspahari.According to official communication, the survey exercise is aimed at assessing the geological and mineral potential of the identified belts. The findings will subsequently be placed before the authorities to determine whether detailed exploration should be taken up in promising areas.Reacting to this, BJP Bengal co-in charge Amit Malviya posted on X: “For years, this natural wealth remained locked away due to the Mamata Banerjee govt’s indifference and red tape. Today, under a BJP govt committed to real development, Jhargram’s mineral riches will finally get their due.”If the Jhargram survey establishes deposits suitable for further exploration and eventually commercial extraction, it could add a new mineral resource to Bengal’s mining map and open up fresh possibilities for mineral-based economic activity in Junglemahal region.
