The Geological Survey of India (GSI) is conducting G2-level advanced exploration for rare earth minerals in Purulia district of West Bengal and Karbi Anglong district of Assam, according to GSI Director General Asit Saha.

Speaking at the 3rd edition of the Minerals and Mining Conclave 2025 organized by ASSOCHAM on July 11, Saha said, “We are expected to complete G2 level exploration for rare earth in two locations—one in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district and the other in Bengal’s Purulia.” Though specific rare earth elements have not been officially identified yet, Director Saha mentioned the expected presence of a “basket of 14-17 rare earth minerals”, which could make extraction technically complex.

Once exploration is complete, the findings will be submitted to the Union government, with the report shared with the states for planning next steps, including potential auction of the blocks within a year. This development comes as global supply chains shift following China’s restrictions on rare earth and magnet exports in April 2025, prompting India to accelerate efforts in critical mineral exploration and mining.