India just hit a new milestone with the launch of the Jonnagiri Gold Mine in Andhra Pradesh—a big deal since it’s the first privately-run commercial gold mining project since Independence. Geomysore Services (India) Pvt. Ltd. built the mine, and for the first time, it’s turning out fully homegrown 24-carat gold. That’s a major shift for India’s mining sector.
The mine stretches over 598 hectares in Kurnool district. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu kicked off operations at the site, which cost roughly ₹405 crore to set up. Leaders expect this move to cut down how much gold India imports, strengthen the country's own supply, and boost the local economy.
History of Jonnagiri Gold Mining
It was back in 1992 that the Geological Survey of India first spotted gold in Jonnagiri. Then, after some serious exploration between 2001 and 2003 confirmed gold reserves in the Dona sector, things got more serious. Over the years, Deccan Gold Mines Ltd. and their partners put resources into more exploration, securing mining leases, and developing the site—slow but steady work that finally led up to this launch. Now, the site’s producing 24-carat gold biscuits in 50g, 100g, and 500g sizes. You can already find these biscuits at select stores in Sharaf Bazaar, near the old Kondareddy Buruju in Kurnool.
'Made in Jonnagiri' Gold in the Market
When it hits its stride, Jonnagiri should produce up to 1,000 kilos of refined gold every year. The mine is set up for about a 15-year run. Along the way, locals will find jobs, and the country will move closer to its goal of ramping up mineral production at home. Officials see this project as a trailblazer. They believe Jonnagiri’s success will inspire more private companies to jump into mineral exploration and mining all over India.
