The recovery was confirmed by NMDC-CMDC Limited, a joint venture of NMDC and the Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation (CMDC), following the processing of 200 tonnes of bulk sample material at NMDC's Diamond Processing Plant in Panna, Madhya Pradesh.
According to the company, the Baloda Belmundi block in the Saraipali region was identified as a prospective diamond-bearing zone after stream sediment sampling, geophysical surveys and 500 metres of exploratory drilling. The recovered diamonds include two gem-quality whitish diamonds weighing 0.19 carats and 0.06 carats, one yellowish non-gem diamond weighing 0.32 carats and two brownish non-gem diamonds weighing 0.59 carats and 0.06 carats.
NMDC-CMDC said the recovered stones have been deposited in the secure strong room of NMDC at Panna pending further directions from the state government.
Mining experts described the presence of gem-quality diamonds during the early exploration phase as an encouraging geological indicator, suggesting the possibility of larger diamond-bearing deposits in the area. They noted that several major diamond-producing regions around the world were initially identified through similar small-scale discoveries.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai termed the recovery a significant milestone for Chhattisgarh and said it highlighted the state's mineral potential while opening new opportunities for investment, employment and economic development.
NMDC-CMDC has sought further guidance from the state government regarding the next phase of exploration and development activities in the area.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar
