Vedanta Ltd on Friday said it has been declared the successful bidder for the Punnam manganese block in Andhra Pradesh.Spread over 152 hectares, the block is currently at the G4 stage of exploration which is the initial phase of mineral exploration focusing on geological broad-scale surveys to identify potential mineral.Read more - Reliance Industries, Rolls-Royce announce strategic intent to partner on indigenous AMCA combat engine"The company has been declared as successful bidder in respect of Punnam Manganese Block in the state of Andhra Pradesh after fulfilling required statutory compliances via letter dated August 13, 2026," Vedanta Ltd said in a filing to BSE.Vedanta said the acquisition of this manganese block will further strengthen the company's diversified metals and mining portfolio while contributing to the country's growing manganese requirements by enhancing domestic resource availability and reducing dependence on imports.Manganese ore is a key input for producing ferro-manganese and silico-manganese alloys, which are essential for imparting strength and toughness to steel.Vedanta Ltd is a leading global producer of metals, critical minerals and technology. The company has operations across India, Africa, the Middle East and East Asia.