Guwahati: In a significant boost to Meghalaya's economic prospects, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has made substantial discoveries of bauxite, lithium and limestone deposits across various regions of the state.

According to ST Narahari, Director of GSI's Training and Capacity Building Division for Meghalaya, reconnaissance surveys have revealed bauxite deposits in the Garo Hills region, with additional deposits found in the West Khasi Hills and East Khasi Hills regions. Notably, substantial moderate-quality bauxite resources have been inferred in the Rymrai area of West Khasi Hills.

Furthermore, the GSI has identified significant limestone deposits, particularly high-grade reserves, in the East Jaintia Hills and East Khasi Hills regions, including Cherrapunjee.

The exploration of 29 blocks in East Jaintia Hills has yielded an estimated 566.04 million tonnes of limestone, with a single block in Cherrapunjee alone holding approximately 71.78 million tonnes. This discovery brings Meghalaya's total limestone resources to a staggering 5737.82 million tonnes, solidifying its position as a state with high-quality limestone.

In addition to these findings, the GSI is expediting the exploration of rare earth elements (REE) and investigating the presence of Germanium and Lithium, crucial elements for advanced technology. Initial surveys are being conducted to locate high-potential areas for these valuable resources, particularly in coal sediments of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo Hills.

Once materialized, these discoveries are expected to significantly boost Meghalaya's economic and industrial prospects, paving the way for a brighter future for the state.