Detailed Summary
India is endowed with a rich variety of mineral resources due to its diverse geological structure. Most valuable minerals date back to the pre-Palaeozoic age and are associated primarily with metamorphic and igneous rocks found in peninsular India. The alluvial plains of North India are notably devoid of economically useful minerals. The minerals play a crucial role in the country’s industrial development.
Minerals are categorized mainly into metallic and non-metallic minerals.
Metallic Minerals
- Ferrous Minerals: Contains iron; includes iron ore, manganese.
- Non-Ferrous Minerals: Does not contain iron; includes copper, bauxite.
Non-Metallic Minerals
- Organic Origin: Fossil fuels like coal and petroleum.
- Inorganic Origin: Includes minerals such as limestone and graphite.
The distribution of these minerals occurs primarily in three belts:
1. North-Eastern Plateau Region: Rich in ferrous metals like iron ore and coal.
2. South-Western Plateau Region: Known for high-grade iron and bauxite.
3. North-Western Region: Contains copper and gypsum deposits.
Characteristics of Minerals
- Uneven distribution.
- Inverse relationship between quality and quantity.
- Exhaustible resources which require conservation.
Minerals like iron ore, manganese, and bauxite are vital for metallurgical industries, whereas coal and petroleum serve as energy sources. Understanding these types of minerals, their distribution, and characteristics is essential for effective resource management and industrial planning in India.