India’s gold production is set for a major boost as Deccan Gold Mines (DGML) has announced that full-scale operations at the Jonnagiri project in Andhra Pradesh will begin shortly.

This marks India’s first large private gold mine, significant given that the country imports nearly 1,000 tonne of gold annually, second only to oil. DGML, established in 2003, holds a stake in Geomysore Services India, which is developing the Jonnagiri gold mine located near Erragudi, Pagadirayi, and Jonnagiri villages in Kurnool district. The project secured environmental clearance (EC) in June-July and is awaiting final state approvals.

DGML’s Managing Director Hanuma Prasad, speaking at the CII India Mining Summit 2025, confirmed that stabilisation work is underway, with only plant technology being fine-tuned. Once operational, the mine is expected to produce around 750 kg of gold annually, with capacity projected to scale up to 1,000 kg within two to three years. India’s gold output currently stands at just 1.5 tonne annually.