Minerals in Chattisgarh

Minerals in Chattisgarh–Chhattisgarh is rich in minerals. It produces 20% of the country’s total cement produce. It has the highest output of coal in the country with second highest reserves. Chattisgarh is third in iron Ore production and first in tin production. Limestone, Dolomite and Bauxite are abundant. It is the only Tin -ore producing state in India. Other commercially extracted Minerals in Chattisgarh include corandum, garnet, quartz, marble, alexandrite and diamonds.

The Minerals in Chattisgarh Resources have immense potential for large investments in mining, setting of Mineral Based Industries and generating EMPLOYMENT. Chhattisgarh nestles atop the world’s largest kimberlite area. Eight blocks have been demarcated for diamond exploration.

Iron ore

Iron ore deposits of Chhattisgarh contains high grade Heamitite ores .These rocks are entirely spread from North to South about 370 km in length that are extending from Bailadilla to Rajhara in southwestern Chhattisgarh occupying Dantewara, Bastar, Kanker, Narainpur, Rajnandgaon, Durg and Kawardha districts.

Bailadilla iron ore deposits (Bastar dist.) located in southern part of the range are world-class and being mined from the leased area to National Mineral Development Corporation, Ltd. (NMDC). Iron ore of Dalli-Rajhara (durg Dist.) located in the central parts of the range are captive mines of Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP).

Recently an iron ore bearing area is discovered in Kabirdham district and known as Eklama iron ore complex. This area is expected to yield high-grade hematitic iron ore in substantial quantity and support iron & steel units.

At a few places, small deposits (including isolated patches) may be related to other geological phenomenon are also known, which may not be economical for large establishment mine production. However, they can be used for sponge iron units.

Bauxite

Chhattisgarh mainly comprises Metal (B & C) and refractory grade (A) bauxite, located in Surguja, Korba, Jashpur, Kanker, Bastar and Kabirdham districts. Total estimated reserves of all grades are of the tune of 148 million tonnes.

Brief information of known bauxite bearing areas is as follows:

Manipat- Mainpat occupying about 470 km2 area, which is situated in the southeastern part of the Surguja Bauxite is widely developed in the form of pockets and lenses within extensively developed laterite over the Deccan basaltic plateau.
Jamirapat- Samripat and Jamirapat forming irregular plateaus occupying about 322km2 and 112km2 area respectively are situated in the eastern part of the Surguja Bauxite is widely developed in the form of pockets and lenses within extensive laterite over the Deccan basaltic plateau.
Pandarpat- Pandrapat forms an irregular shaped plateau of about 500 km2 in the western part of Jashpur These plateaus are capped by laterite, over the Deccan basaltic flows containing Bauxite in the form of pockets and lenses of various dimensions.
Keshkal Area- Bauxite is developed in the form of pockets and lenses on small plateaus of varying dimensions in Keshkal area. Bauxite of this area belongs to A and B grade and may be considered as refractory grade. It is situated in Kanker District.
Kabirdham District – In the district, Bauxite is known in and around villages Bodai Daldali, Keshmarda, Rabda, Mundadadar and Samsetta. A total reserves of 6.12 million tones of metal grade bauxite is expected from the area. The area is leased out to BALCO.
Bastar District- A small bauxite pocket has been discovered by DGM in Asna – Tarapur area of Bastar district. The area is a few kms. away from Jagdalpur 1.5 million tones of bauxite has been estimated from the area.

Limestone

Limestone and Dolomite are the carbonate rocks that are mainly used for cement manufacture and metallurgical purposes with other allied uses of calcinations, flux, refractory bricks, dimension stones etc. based on the grade. These sedimentary rock are precipitated in identical Environment to form widespread and continuous deposits.

Limestone comprises of high calcium carbonate, while Dolomite is a double carbonate with higher concentrations of magnesium carbonate (>19% MgO) and calcium carbonate (20~35% CaO).

Limestone and dolomite deposits are known in the State located in Raigarh, Janjgir-Champa, Kabirdham, Bilaspur, Raipur, Durg, Rajnandgaon districts forming part of Chhattisgarh basin and in Jagdalpur district within Indravati basin and in Dantewara district in Sukma basin.

Total estimated deposits of all grades of limestone are of the tune of about 9038 million tones and estimated reserves of dolomite are of the tune of 847 million tones as per Indian Bureau of Mines .

Coal

The state has 16% of the total coal deposits of India.
44483 million tonnes coal has been estimated in 12 coalfields of the State located in Raigarh, Surguja, Koriya and Korba districts.
The state ranks 2nd in coal production by contributing over 18% to the total national production.
Most of the coal deposits are of power grade coal. NTPC & CSEB in Korba are the major producer of thermal power and new a plant of NTPC has been started in Seepat, Bilaspur.
Potential for more power generation units exist in the State. New capacities of 10,000 MW are expected to materialize.

Note– more details on Coal deposits have been provided in notes on Energy Resources of Chattisgarh.

Tin Ore

Chhattisgarh is the only tin producing State in India. Tin ore is known as cassiterite, which was reported in Dantewara district. Cassiterite bearing pegmatites are reportedly rich in collumbite and tantalite, which are ore of rare metals niobium and tantalum, respectively.

Major Tin ore producing areas are

Tongpal Area
Katekalyan Area
Padapur-Bacheli Area

Corundum

Corundum is a rock-forming mineral that is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is an aluminum oxide with a chemical composition of Al₂O₃ and a hexagonal crystal structure.

The mineral is widely known for its extreme hardness and for the fact that it is sometimes found as beautiful transparent crystals in many different colors.

A gemstone-quality specimen of corundum with a deep red color is known as a “ruby.” A gemstone-quality corundum with a blue color is called a “sapphire.” Colorless corundum is known as “white sapphire.” Corundum of any other color is known as “fancy sapphire.”

In Chhattisgarh corundum occurs in Bhopalpatnam and Sukma areas of Dantewara/Bijapur distrticts. Minor occurrences are also reported from Deobhog area of Raipur district. Total 48 tonne of corundum has been estimated in the State.

Major areas are

Kuchnoor – Kuchnoor is situated 2 km. NW of Bhopalpatnam. The host rock of corundum in this area is biotite granite gneisses. The corundum occurrence in the area is restricted to only lateral extension.

Ulloor –

Primary and placer both type of corundum reported in the village Ulloor. Placer corundum is encountered in Pedakonta nala. Primary corundum found at the depth of 3.85 m. in biotite granite gneiss.

Dampaya area –
In this area, pieces of corundum were recovered from nala section. Corundum is pinkish yellow, translucent, hexagonal barrel shaped. Country rock of the area is granite gneiss. It comes under forest area.

Dhangal –

The corundum recovered is insitu i.e. from biotite granite gneisses. The corundum is pinkish violet in colour and characterised by basal pinacoid prism and striations. Corundum is translucent and can be placed in semiprecious stone category.

Chikudapalli – The area is situated 5 km. due NE of Bhopalpatnam. The blue corundum (Sapphire variety) was recovered from pits upper Soil zone.

Yapla – The corundum is recovered from Gorla nala section near village Yapla. The corundum is yellowish and pink in colour. The country rock of the area is granite gneisss.

Sonakukanar, Sukma area- Corundum has been reported around villages Sonakukanar and Nagaras. Here corundum occurs within fuchiste schist in disseminated form.

Apart from these bulk minerals, there are number of other available Minerals in Chattisgarh. Some important one’s are described here –

Diamond:

Incidences of diamond in the rivers of the State and discovery of diamondiferous kimberlite in Mainpur area of Raipur district have attracted global attention. So far six kimberlites in Mainpur area and two kimberlite in Tokapal area have been discovered. Eight blocks have been demarcated based on structural controls to host kimberlites in Chhattisgarh. Potentially 3 diamondiferous kimberlites pipes have been identified in Behradih and Payalikhand villages of Raipur district. The State has emerged as a hotspot for potential diamond mining with all major mining companies engaged in reconnaissance operations.

Other Gem Stones

A rare gem mineral like Alexandrite is found in the State. Other gemstones like Garnet, Beryl, Rosy quartz, amethyst etc are also reported. Based on the minerals strength of the State, Gems and Jewellery Park is planned near Raipur.

Dimension Stones

Multicolored and texturally different granites are widely distributed in the State. Limestone, dolomite of attractive colour and design are extensively available in the State. Quartzite, sandstone and shales are also widely exposed which can be suitable as dimension stone. Export oriented cutting & polishing units are working in the State and prospects for many more exist.

Gold

Potentially gold bearing rocks are available in Raipur and Mahasamund districts. Placer gold panning is widely recorded from Jashpur, Kanker, Mahasamund and Bastar districts. ~3 tonnes of gold reserves are estimated in the State. Global mining companies like ACC Rio Tinto and Geomysore Services Pvt. Ltd., etc. are engaged in reconnaissance & prospecting operations for gold deposits in the State.

Base Metals

Potential base metals like copper, lead indications are known from Rajnandgaon, Mahasamund and Dantewara districts. These metals can be used in electric wires, batteries, manufacture of pigments, alloys etc.

Other minerals like clays, quartzite, fluorite, andalucite, kyanite, sillimanite, talc, soapstone, steatite, marble, silica sand, etc. are also reported from various part of the States.

Directorate of Geology and Mining

Directorate of Geology and Mining, Chhattisgarh is the State agency engaged in exploration of the mineral resources of Minerals in Chattisgarh. It has dedicated and skilled, teams of geoscientists, chemists, surveyors and drillers, who are engaged in various qualitative & quantitative aspects of mineral investigation in the State. The Directorate has been instrumental in locating important mineral deposits in various part of the State notably the diamondiferous kimberlite in Mainpur, gold in Sonakhan, iron ore in Kawardha District.

Functions

The Directorate of Geology and Mining has been committed to discharge the following functions:-

Mineral Exploration
Mineral Administration

Mineral Exploration –

Under this, the directorate caries out geological survey of the mineralized areas and delineate the potential zone for mineral exploration. Such potential zones are prospected by pitting/trenching and drilling. Geochemical, Geophysical, Petrological and Remote Sensing Techniques are utilized for the geological survey of mineralized zones to prove the quantity and quality of the mineral present in the area to evaluate their industrial potentiality.

Mineral Administration –

It is an important aspect being executed through mining Officers/Assistant M.O. posted in all the district head quarters in the Collectorate. They receive applications for various mineral concessions, process them within stipulated time and grant the leases to the applicant. Apart from this they also assess and realize the royalty on the minerals produce. Strict check on illegal extraction of Minerals in Chattisgarh, pilferage of mineral revenue, implementation of rules and regulations by the lessee are being carried out by departmental MO/AMO’s through mining inspectors of the concerned districts. The reconnaissance permit granted by Govt. Is also monitored by this wing.

Chhattisgarh is a state in central India. It is the 10th largest state in India by area and the 17th most populous state. The state is known for its rich mineral resources, including coal, iron ore, manganese ore, bauxite, limestone, dolomite, gypsum, clay, sand, gravel, granite, marble, quartzite, feldspar, mica, talc, graphite, fluorspar, asbestos, barite, tungsten, molybdenum, beryllium, lithium, cesium, rubidium, tantalum, niobium, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, thorium, uranium, rare earth Elements, precious metals, and semi-precious stones.

Coal is the most important mineral resource in Chhattisgarh. The state has the second largest coal reserves in India, after Jharkhand. Coal is used to generate electricity, produce steel, and make other products.

Iron ore is another important mineral resource in Chhattisgarh. The state has the third largest iron ore reserves in India, after Odisha and Karnataka. Iron ore is used to make steel.

Manganese ore is also an important mineral resource in Chhattisgarh. The state has the second largest manganese ore reserves in India, after Madhya Pradesh. Manganese ore is used to make steel and other alloys.

Bauxite is a mineral used to make aluminum. Chhattisgarh has the second largest bauxite reserves in India, after Odisha.

Limestone is a mineral used to make cement and other building materials. Chhattisgarh has the third largest limestone reserves in India, after Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Dolomite is a mineral used to make cement, glass, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest dolomite reserves in India, after Gujarat.

Gypsum is a mineral used to make plaster, drywall, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest gypsum reserves in India, after Rajasthan.

Clay is a mineral used to make bricks, Pottery, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest clay reserves in India, after Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Sand is a mineral used to make concrete, glass, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest sand reserves in India, after Gujarat.

Gravel is a mineral used to make concrete, asphalt, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest gravel reserves in India, after Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Granite is a type of igneous rock used to make building materials, countertops, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest granite reserves in India, after Andhra Pradesh.

Marble is a type of metamorphic rock used to make building materials, countertops, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest marble reserves in India, after Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Quartzite is a type of metamorphic rock used to make building materials, countertops, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest quartzite reserves in India, after Andhra Pradesh.

Feldspar is a type of igneous rock used to make glass, ceramics, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest feldspar reserves in India, after Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Mica is a type of mineral used to make electrical insulation, cosmetics, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest mica reserves in India, after Jharkhand.

Talc is a type of mineral used to make cosmetics, paper, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest talc reserves in India, after Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Graphite is a type of mineral used to make pencils, lubricants, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest graphite reserves in India, after Jharkhand.

Fluorspar is a type of mineral used to make steel, aluminum, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest fluorspar reserves in India, after Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Asbestos is a type of mineral used to make insulation, fireproofing, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest asbestos reserves in India, after Jharkhand.

Barite is a type of mineral used to make drilling mud, paper, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest barite reserves in India, after Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Tungsten is a type of metal used to make Light bulbs, electronics, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest tungsten reserves in India, after Jharkhand.

Molybdenum is a type of metal used to make steel, electronics, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest molybdenum reserves in India, after Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Beryllium is a type of metal used to make electronics, aerospace, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the second largest beryllium reserves in India, after Jharkhand.

Lithium is a type of metal used to make batteries, electronics, and other products. Chhattisgarh has the third largest lithium reserves in India, after Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Cesium is a type of metal used to make batteries, electronics,

Here are some frequently asked questions and short answers about minerals:

What are minerals?
Minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic, solid substances with a definite chemical composition and crystal structure.
What are the different types of minerals?
There are over 4,000 known minerals, but only about 200 are common. The most common minerals are quartz, feldspar, and mica.
What are the uses of minerals?
Minerals are used in a variety of products, including building materials, electronics, and jewelry.
Where are minerals found?
Minerals are found in rocks and soil. They can also be found in water and air.
How are minerals formed?
Minerals are formed when elements combine together in the Earth’s crust. This can happen through a variety of processes, including cooling magma, Evaporation of water, and weathering of rocks.
What are the benefits of minerals?
Minerals provide a variety of benefits, including:
They are essential for human Health.
They are used in a variety of products that make our lives easier.
They are a Source Of Income for many people.
What are the risks of minerals?
Minerals can also pose a variety of risks, including:
They can be toxic if ingested.
They can cause respiratory problems.
They can be a source of pollution.
How can we protect ourselves from the risks of minerals?
We can protect ourselves from the risks of minerals by:
Avoiding exposure to dust and fumes from mining and processing.
Wearing protective gear when working with minerals.
Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Drinking plenty of water.
What is the future of minerals?
The future of minerals is uncertain. The demand for minerals is expected to increase as the world’s Population grows and economies develop. However, the supply of minerals is limited. This could lead to shortages and higher prices in the future.

Sure. Here are some MCQs about minerals:

Which of the following is not a mineral?
(A) Gold
(B) Coal
(C) Diamond
(D) Water
Which of the following is the most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust?
(A) Oxygen
(B) Silicon
(C) Aluminum
(D) Iron
Which of the following is a non-metallic mineral?
(A) Gold
(B) Coal
(C) Diamond
(D) Salt
Which of the following is a metallic mineral?
(A) Gold
(B) Coal
(C) Diamond
(D) Salt
Which of the following is a gemstone?
(A) Gold
(B) Coal
(C) Diamond
(D) Salt
Which of the following is a fossil fuel?
(A) Gold
(B) Coal
(C) Diamond
(D) Salt
Which of the following is an ore?
(A) Gold
(B) Coal
(C) Diamond
(D) Salt
Which of the following is a mineral that is used to make glass?
(A) Sand
(B) Clay
(C) Limestone
(D) Gypsum
Which of the following is a mineral that is used to make cement?
(A) Sand
(B) Clay
(C) Limestone
(D) Gypsum
Which of the following is a mineral that is used to make fertilizer?
(A) Phosphate rock
(B) Potash
(C) Nitrate
(D) Sulfur

I hope these MCQs were helpful!