Massive Gold Deposit Worth Rs. 36,000 Crore Found in France; Government Suspends Mining Activity

The Auvergne region in Central France captured national headlines recently after a local farmer reportedly found one of the largest gold discoveries in modern European history, which is estimated to be worth €4 billion (approximately Rs. 36,000 crore or Rs. 3.6 lakh crore).

Michel Dupont, a 52-year-old farmer from Auvergne, was conducting a routine inspection of his land when he spotted something shimmering in a nearby stream that turned out to be actual gold nuggets, as per reports by Times Entertainment. According to geologists who later visited the site, preliminary assessments suggest the land may have over 150 tonnes of gold deposits, a figure that stunned even the most seasoned mineral experts.

French Government Suspends Mining

The French government has suspended all activity at the site, citing the need for detailed environmental impact assessments and legal review procedures. Under French natural resource laws, even discoveries made on private land are subject to strict state control and regulation. Authorities have sealed off Michel's land and restricted any commercial activity until all necessary reviews are completed, the report further stated.

What Local Residents in the Auvergne Region Say?

People living in the Auvergne region are divided over the gold discovery. Some see it as a great chance to boost the local economy and bring jobs to their quiet rural area. Others are worried that gold mining could ruin the environment and disturb their peaceful way of life. Environmental groups are also concerned. They fear that digging for gold might harm the area's forests, clean air, and wildlife. The region is known for its natural beauty, and locals don't want that to change.

Other Major Gold Deposit Discoveries In Recent Times

Recently, both Pakistan and China have announced significant gold discoveries. In March this year Pakistan discovered a major gold deposit worth Rs.80,000 crore along the Indus River in Punjab's Attock district. Meanwhile, China has reported the discovery of a massive gold reserve in the Wangu goldfield of Hunan Province, estimated to contain around 1,000 metric tonnes of high-quality gold ore valued at approximately USD 83 billion.

These recent gold discoveries come at a very important time when gold prices are soaring globally due to massive demand for the precious metal. In India, gold rates have crossed Rs. 96,000 per 10 grams, with a sharp rise of nearly 25% so far this year. Similarly, international gold markets continue to hit record highs, with investors flocking to gold during market volatility.

These new mines will help increase the supply of gold, potentially easing some of the upward pressure on prices. Moreover, the expansion of gold reserves worldwide could strengthen the precious metals sector and attract further investment.