New Delhi, Feb. 23 -- Delays in gold exploration and mining licensing are holding back India's production potential and keeping the country dependent on imports, and the country could produce 50-100 tonnes annually if exploration is accelerated and licences are issued more widely, Anantha Padmanaban, founder member and former chairman of the All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) told ANI on Monday.

In an online interview, Padmanaban said India has significant untapped gold potential but exploration has not progressed. "Mining, we have a lot of potential, but our mining exploration is not happening. Government has been very slow," he said.

He said that India can supply 50-100 tonnes to the market or they can send it to the Res...