The Geological Survey of India has confirmed that lithium deposits were found for the very first time in the country. The reserves, a total of 5.9 million tonnes, were discovered in the Salal-Haimana area of the Reasi district on February 10.

The footage shows the metal being held by officials.

With lithium being an essential component in EV batteries, the discovery of this element is game-changing for India. The country, which depends on Australia and Argentina for this metal's imports, could now see a 30% increase in the number of electric cars by 2030.

Lithium deposits have been found for the very first time in the country as confirmed by the Geological Survey of India, in northern India's Jammu and Kashmir.

The reserves of this non-ferrous metal was found in the Salal-Haimana area of the Reasi district on February 10.

Visuals showed the lithium stones being held by the officials after it was discovered. According to a report, the Geological Survey of India's statement stated that a total of 5.9 million tonnes (59 lakh tonnes) have been found in the area. This is a game-changing development, as lithium is a very important component in EV batteries with the government laying emphasis on electric cars. India has had to depend on other countries for lithium imports but with this discovery, that trend might change.

The Ministry of Mines further added that a total of 51 blocks of lithium, as well as gold, was given away to the respective state governments. The 51 mineral blocks included potash, molybdenum, and base metals which were spread in Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Odisha, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Telangana and Tamil Nadu.

Officials also stated that bauxite in composite form was also found.

"GSI has now approved it and it will be taken for auction after Lithium reserves were found. We had explored it earlier also but now this time it has been approved by GSI,” District Mineral Officer, said. The lithium will now be taken up for auction at the country and Union Territory level.