National News
Major Gold Reserves Unearthed in Odisha: A Game-Changer for India’s Mining Industry
Odisha’s Gold Discovery Sparks Optimism for Growth in the Mining Sector, with Plans for Large-Scale Auction Underway
Odisha has emerged as a promising new hub for gold mining, following the discovery of vast gold reserves across several districts. Bibhuti Jena, the state’s Mines Minister, confirmed the exciting find and announced ongoing exploration efforts. The state is set to hold a large-scale auction of gold mining blocks in the near future to capitalize on this newfound potential.
Key districts such as Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, Keonjhar, and Deogarh have been identified as hotspots for the gold reserves. Exploration is also expanding to regions like Malkangiri, Sambalpur, and Boudh, with more discoveries anticipated. In Mayurbhanj, areas like Jashipur, Suriaguda, Ruaansi, Idelkucha, Maredihi, Suleipat, and Badampahad are under investigation for their mineral potential.
One of the most notable discoveries has been in Deogarh district, specifically in Adasa-Rampalli, an area where gold traces had been found earlier. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) is actively conducting G-2 level exploration in this region, revealing the possibility of multiple mineral resources, including copper.
Keonjhar district is also a key focus for gold exploration, with surveys being carried out in areas like Gopur-Gazipur, Mankadchuan, Saleikana, and Dimirimunda. These efforts form part of Odisha’s larger strategy to develop its mining industry and fully utilize its untapped mineral wealth. The state government is closely involved, and the upcoming auction of gold mining blocks in Deogarh is seen as a major step forward.
The exploration is being carefully monitored by state authorities, the GSI, and the Odisha Mining Corporation, with technical committees set to review the final exploration reports to assess the viability of commercial mining. Early findings suggest promising potential, and final results are expected by the end of 2025.
This discovery further solidifies Odisha’s reputation as a mineral-rich state, while positioning India as a key player on the global mining stage. If the reserves prove commercially viable, the gold deposits could provide a significant economic boost, drawing both domestic and international investments into the country’s mining sector.
National News
India-Oman CEPA Opens New Export Corridor As First Gold Jewellery Shipment Departs From Kolkata
First Duty-Free Gold Jewellery Consignment Under The India-Oman CEPA Departs From Kolkata, Paving the Way For Stronger Trade Ties and An Estimated Fivefold Growth In Exports To Oman Over The Next Three Years.
In a significant milestone for India’s gems and jewellery sector, the first shipment of gold jewellery from Kolkata to Oman under the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was dispatched today, marking the commencement of direct duty-free exports from Eastern India to the Sultanate of Oman. The maiden consignment, exported by Kolkata-based jewellery manufacturer Wonder Jewels, was flagged off in the presence of Smt. Arti Saxena, IRS, Commissioner of Customs, Kolkata (Airport & Air Cargo Complex) and Shri Pankaj Parekh, Regional Chairman, Eastern Region, GJEPC and other officials.
The India-Oman CEPA, which came into force on 1 June 2026, provides duty-free access for Indian gold jewellery and diamonds in the Omani market, enhancing the competitiveness of Indian products and creating new opportunities for exporters. The agreement is expected to strengthen direct trade links between the two countries while reducing dependence on intermediary trade routes.
Oman represents a promising destination for Indian gems and jewellery exports. India’s exports of gems and jewellery to Oman currently stand at around USD 35 million, including approximately USD 10 million in gold jewellery exports. Industry estimates indicate that exports to Oman could increase to nearly USD 150 million over the next three years, driven by improved market access and growing demand for Indian jewellery in the region.
Commenting on the development, Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, said:

“We have already witnessed the positive impact of India’s trade agreements, particularly the India-UAE CEPA and the India-Australia ECTA, in expanding market access and creating new opportunities for our exporters. Despite geopolitical uncertainties and the challenges posed by evolving tariff regimes during FY 2025-26, the gems and jewellery sector delivered exports of nearly USD 28 billion, reflecting the resilience of the industry and the benefits of market diversification.
We are confident that the India-Oman CEPA will further strengthen India’s presence in the Gulf region and open new avenues for export growth. We thank the Government of India for its continued efforts to secure trade agreements that support the growth and global competitiveness of our industry.”
Pankaj Parekh, Regional Chairman, Eastern Region, GJEPC, said:
“The first shipment from Kolkata under the India-Oman CEPA highlights the growing role of Eastern India in India’s gems and jewellery export ecosystem. Direct duty-free access to the Omani market will eliminate the need for costly routing through the UAE, making Indian jewellery more competitive while enabling faster deliveries and greater efficiency. The agreement opens up new business opportunities for exporters from the region, and we expect this development to encourage more companies to explore Oman and the wider Gulf market.”

Industry stakeholders believe the India-Oman CEPA will further strengthen bilateral trade and position Oman as an important gateway for Indian jewellery exports to the wider Gulf region.
-
BrandBuzz9 hours agoThe Cut of a Champion- A limited edition Forevermark X SKY Diamond Pendant in collaboration with Suryakumar Yadav
-
DiamondBuzz1 week agoJCK Las Vegas Reveals K-Shaped Diamond Recovery, Scarcity Drives 2-Carat+ Prices
-
DiamondBuzz14 hours agoAlrosa Launches Its First Long-Term Natural Diamond Promotion Programme Extending Through 2030
-
BrandBuzz14 hours agoDAIMANTÉ’s The Talisman Collection: Meaningful Gifts For The Modern Father

