India, June 29 -- justify;">Chhattisgarh has moved a step closer to commercial diamond mining with NMDC-CMDC Limited (NCL) approving the next phase of exploration at the Baloda-Belmundi Diamond Block in Mahasamund district.

At its Board of Directors meeting held in New Delhi, NCL approved the commencement of large-diameter drilling, a key step in scientifically assessing the diamond-bearing kimberlite deposit and evaluating its commercial potential.

The Board reviewed the progress of exploration activities and directed that all technical work under the Prospecting Licence be completed within the prescribed timeline. The drilling programme is expected to provide detailed information about the diamond deposit, which will form the basis of...