India’s First Private Gold Mine Begins Commercial Operations

The Jonnagiri Gold Mine in Tuggali mandal of Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, began commercial operations on 24 June 2026. It is operated by Geomysore Services India Pvt Ltd and is described as India’s only operational private-sector primary gold mine since Independence.

Jonnagiri Gold Mine: Location and Project Profile

The mine covers about 598 hectares and involves an investment of ₹405 crore. The project is located in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, where Kurnool district is one of the major mineral-bearing districts.

Commercial Production and Output Estimates

The mine started trial production in May 2026 before the launch of commercial operations. Initial gold output for 2026-27 is estimated at around 400 kg, with annual production projected to rise to nearly 1,000 kg in later years and to 2 tonnes after further expansion.

Employment and Revenue Features

The project is expected to generate around 700 direct jobs. More than 80% of the workforce is expected to come from local residents, and the Andhra Pradesh government expects a 4% royalty on gold production.

Important Facts for Exams

• Gold is a native element with the chemical symbol Au and atomic number 79.
• India imports most of its gold demand, and domestic gold mining remains limited compared with global producers.
• Andhra Pradesh has several mineral resources, including gold, limestone, and barytes.
• Primary gold mining refers to extraction of gold from ore bodies rather than from alluvial deposits.

Administrative Details

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launched the commercial operations on 24 June 2026 and laid the foundation stone for the mine’s second unit. Jonnagiri village is proposed to be renamed Swarnagiri.