Bengal Identifies 6.7 Lakh Tonnes Of Rare Earth Resources In Purulia And Bankura
West Bengal has identified an estimated 6.7 lakh tonnes of rare earth-bearing resources in the districts of Purulia and Bankura, marking a significant step towards strengthening India's critical minerals sector. The state government is now preparing to seek approval from the Centre to auction mining blocks for commercial extraction.
Rare earth elements are considered strategic minerals due to their importance in manufacturing electric vehicles, semiconductors, wind turbines, smartphones, advanced electronics, and defence equipment. The discovery could help reduce India's dependence on imported critical minerals.
The proposed mining initiative is expected to attract fresh investments, generate employment, and encourage the development of downstream industries linked to clean energy and advanced manufacturing. It could also create new opportunities for mineral processing and technology-based industries in the state.
With global demand for rare earth elements rising rapidly, the discovery has the potential to position West Bengal as an emerging hub for strategic mineral production, supporting both the state's industrial growth and India's long-term manufacturing ambitions.