In this context, India’s need for copper is both strategic and urgent. Recognising its essential role, the Government of India has declared copper a critical mineral under the National Critical Minerals List—placing it alongside lithium and rare earths in the country’s mineral security agenda. In this context GMDC’s exploration and development at Ambaji is aligned with this vision, helping India move closer to Atmanirbhar Bharat by unlocking critical mineral reserves at home.
GMDC’s Ambaji Copper Project emerges as a key contributor to India’s pursuit of critical minerals and its journey towards self-reliance. With over 10 million tonnes of copper, zinc and lead in identified resources, the project is designed to anchor India’s copper ambitions in domestic strength. Located in Gujarat’s mineral belt, the project brings together large-scale exploration, extraction and beneficiation in a single integrated setup.
To unlock its full potential, GMDC is setting up an integrated beneficiation plant on-site to produce high-purity copper concentrate—ready for direct use by domestic smelters and wire manufacturers. This move ensures greater downstream value capture, strengthens local manufacturing and significantly reduces import dependency.
To advance precision exploration, GMDC is leveraging next-generation technologies—from geophysical techniques and remote sensing to drone-based surveys and advanced data analytics. These tools are enabling faster, more accurate mapping of mineralised zones. In parallel, GMDC is building strategic collaborations with national laboratories, mineral research institutes and private experts to fast-track grade assessment, reserve validation and mining productivity. Working closely with the Directorate of Geology & Mining (DGM), GMDC is executing detailed reconnaissance and feasibility studies in the Ambaji region. Together, these initiatives form part of a phased, future-focused strategy to expand GMDC’s footprint in India’s critical mineral landscape.
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