Ferrous Minerals
Ferrous minerals form approximately three-quarters of the total value of metallic minerals produced in India. These minerals, particularly iron ore, play a pivotal role in the development of metallurgical industries. India possesses rich deposits of high-quality iron ore, with major production occurring in states like Odisha, Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh.
Key Points
- Iron Ore: The backbone of industrial growth in India, primarily exists as hematite and magnetite, with hematite being the most extensively utilized due to its higher availability.
- Major Iron Ore Belts: The primary belts include the Odisha-Jharkhand belt, Durg-Bastar-Chandrapur belt in Chhattisgarh, Ballari-Chikkamagaluru-Tumakuru belt in Karnataka, and Maharashtra-Goa belt.
- Manganese: Essential for steel production, manganese is used in creating steel and various alloys. It is also used in the manufacture of bleaching powder, insecticides, and paints.
India's mineral wealth significantly contributes to both domestic industrial needs and international exports.