Mineral resources of India (Published by: Yatindra Dutt)

MINERAL: Ministry of Mines is responsible for survey and exploration of all minerals,

other than natural gases, petroleum and atomic minerals, for mining and metallurgy of non-

ferrous metals like aluminium, copper, zinc, lead, gold, nickel etc. and for administration of

Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act. 1957 in respect of all mines and

minerals other than coal, natural gas and petroleum.

Geological Context

Geologically India is divided into-

- the Indian Peninsula (shield) comprising 1.9 million sq km

- the Indo-Gangetic Alluvial plains comprising 0.5 million sq km

- The Extra - Peninsula (Himalaya) comprising 0.7 million sq km.

The Indian Peninsula covers the area south of the Vindhyas, and the region is a

plateau formed by the survival of the harder rocks, resistant to weathering. The region is

made of stable and strong rock formations. The stratigraphic units are the Archaean Rocks

(Dharwar and post-Dharwar). the Purana Group of Proterozoic rocks (Cuddapah and

Vindhyan systems) the Gondwana sequence of Paleozoic and Mesozoic rocks and the Deccan

Traps of the Mesozoic-Cenozoic era. Archaean rocks occupy two-thirds of the Peninsula

spread over Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Chattisgarh and

Jharkhand and in a narrow tract extending from northern Gujarat into Rajasthan, forming

some part of the Aravalli mountain range, as well in the Shillong plateau. Archaean rocks are

the store house of mineral wealth, and except for coal, oil, gas and a few other mineral

deposits, all our mineral wealth are in the Archaean areas.

The Cuddapah System of Purana rocks mainly comprise quartzite, limestone

and state and the Vindhyan system mainly comprises sandstones and shales with limestones

with diamondiferous conglomerates. The Gondwana sequence of massive sedimentary rocks

in linear tracts along Narmada-Son-Damodar alignment, along Mahanadi and along Godavari

(and other outcrops) holds much of the coal reserves of the country. The offshore regions of

some of these rivers are storehouses of gas and oil. The Deccan Trap consisting of basaltic

flows through long and narrow fissures and at places eruptive volcanoes resulted in formation

of lava spread over some 15 lakh sq km, mainly in Gujarat (Kachchh), Madhya Pradesh

Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The lava sheets have a thickness of nearly 2000

m in the western Ghats. The Trap rocks are good for building stones. Road metal etc., though

weathering of high grade basalts result in lateritic deposits at many places.

The Indo Gangetic plains stretching from Sindh (Pakistan) and Punjab in the

west to Bengal and Assam in the east consist of alluvium of Recent (Quaternary) origin with

a thickness of 1500 - 6000 m. lying over older formations. Because they were created during

uplift of the Himalaya and that the Himalaya is actively being eroded by many energetic

rivers, this area is of geological interest from point of view of seismicity, its hydrology and

natural hazards.

The Extra Peninsula region comprises the mountain chains of Baluchistan

(Pakistan) to the Himalaya to Arakan Yoma (Myanmar). Being of recent origin and

tectonically active the area is unstable, and barring a few areas of older rocks, usually

consists of marine sedimentary rocks of the Cambrian to Cretaceous times in the inner areas.

The sediments of the outer Himalaya (Shivaliks) being freshwater sediments are of geological

importance because the Tertiary rocks of freshwater sedimentary origin may contain reserves

of petroleum, seeing that similar rocks of Assam, Gujarat, Cambay and off shore areas have

yielded results.

Mineral Legislation

India is richly endowed with many minerals. Under the Constitution, mineral

rights and the administration of mining laws are vested in the respective State governments.

The Central Government, however, regulates the development of mines and minerals under

the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the rules framed

thereunder. The MMDR Act 1957 came into force on 1.6.1958 and a number of amendments

have been carried out in 1972, 1986, 1994 and 1999. This statute empowers the Central

Government to formulate rules for.

The grant, renewal, etc. of reconnaissance permits, prospecting licences and

mining leases for major minerals viz. Mineral Concession Rules, 1960, framed under Section

13 of MMDR Act 1957. The conservation and development of minerals, (viz. Mineral

Conservation and Development Rules, 1988 framed under the Section 18 of the MMDR Act.

1957 for major minerals. These Rules are not applicable to atomic, fuel and minor minerals.

Powers are vested under Section 15 of the above said Act, to the respective state

Governments too frame Minor Mineral Concession Rules. And accordingly all State

Governments and some Union Territories have framed their own Rules. The Granite

Conservation and Development Rules, 1999 and Marble Development and Conservation

Rules 2002 are also framed under Section of 18 of the MMDR Act, 1957 for conservation

and systematic development of granite and marble resources in the country, respectively.

Important Features of National Mineral Policy, 2008

As a sequel to the recommendations of the Hoda Committee which was constituted by the

Planning Commission to review the National Mineral Policy, a New National Mineral Policy,

2008 was approved by the Government. The policy advocates:-

(i) use of state-of-the-art technology for exploration;

(ii) zero waste mining;

(iii) development of capital market structures to attract risk investment into survey and

prospecting;

(iv) Transparency in allocation of concessions;

(v) auction of ore bodies prospected at public expense

(vi) Independent Mining Administrative Tribunal;

(vii) a framework of sustainable development to take care of biodiversity issues etc.

A draft Bill to replace the existing MMDR Act is under consideration of the

Government and consultation process with Stakeholders including States Government and

Industry is under way.

MINERAL RESOURCES IN INDIA

The classification of reserves/resources of various minerals based on United

Nations Frame work Classification (UNFC) as on 1.4.2005 has been updated. The UNFC

consists of a three dimensional system with the 3 axes :

• Economic Viability

• Feasibility Assessment and

• Geological Assessment

UNFC is a three-digit code based system, wherein the economic viability axis

represent the first digit, the feasibility axis the second digit and the geologic axis represent the

third digit. Each of these three axis have further codes in decreasing order. The economic

viability have three codes i.e. 1 (Economic), 2 (Potentially economic) and 3 (Intrinsically

economic); the feasibility assessment have three codes i.e. 1 (Feasibility study and mining

report), 2 (Pre-feasibility study) and 3 (Geological study) and the geological assessment have

four codes. i.e. 1 (Detailed exploration), 2 (General exploration), 3 (Prospecting) and 4

(Reconnassance). Thus the highest category and resources under UNFC system will have the

code (111) and lowest category the code (334). The various terms used in this classification

are as follows.

Total Mineral Resources: Reserve plus Remaining Resource comprise the Total Mineral

Resource.

A. Mineral Reserves: Economically mineable part of Measured and/or Indicated mineral

resource

i) Proved Mineral Reserves (111) and

ii) Probable Mineral Reserves (121) & (122)

B. Mineral Resources: It is the balance of the Total Mineral Resources that have not been

identified as a Mineral Reserve

i) Measured Mineral Resources - (331)

ii) Indicated Mineral Resources - (332)

iii) Inferred Mineral Resources - (333)

iv) Reconnaissance Mineral Resources - (334)

v) Prefeasibility Mineral Resources - (221) & (222)

vi) Feasibility Mineral Resources - (211)

The principal minerals found in the country along with their estimated

reserves/resources are given below:

BAUXITE

The Total Resources of Bauxite as per United Nations Framework Classification (UNFC) in

the country are placed at about 3,290 million tonnes as on 1.4.2005. These resources include

899 million tonnes of Reserves and 2,391 million tonnes of Remaining resources, Orissa,

Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Maharashtra are the

principal States where bauxite deposits are located. Major deposits are concentrated in the

East Coast Bauxite deposits of Orissa and Andhra Pradesh.

CHROMITE

The total Resources of Chromite in the country as per UNFC System as on

1.4.2005 are estimated at 213 million tonnes, comprising 66 million tonnes tonnes reserves

(31%) and 147 million tonnes of remaining resources (69%). In India 95% resources are

located in Orissa, mostly in the Sukinda valley in Cuttack and Jaipur districts and the

remaining 5% resources are distributed in Manipur and Karnataka and meagre quantities in

the states of Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

COPPER

The Total resources of copper one as on 1.4.2005 as per UNFC system are

placed at 1.39 billion tonnes with a metal content of 11,418 thousand tonnes. Of these 369.49

million tonnes with a total metal content of 4383.97 thousand tonnes fall under Reserves

while balance 1.02 billion tonnes with a metal content of 7033.75 thousand tonnes are

‘Remaining resources’. Rajasthan is credited with the largest resources of copper ore at 668.5

million tonnes with a metal content of 3982 thousand tonnes followed by Madhya Pradesh

and Jharkhand. Copper resources are also established in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana,

Karnataka, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Orissa, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand and West

Bengal.

GOLD

There are three important gold fields in the country, namely, Kolar Gold Field,

Kolar district and Hutti Gold Field in Raichur district (both in Karnataka) and Ramgiri Gold

Field in Anantpur district (Andhra Pradesh). As per UNFC as on 1.4.2005 the total resources

of gold ore (primary) in the country were estimated at 390.29 million tonnes with a metal

content of 490.81 tonnes. Out of these, 19.25 million tonnes with a Metal content of 85.12

tonnes. Out of these, 19.25 million tonnes with a metal content of 85.12 tonnes were placed

under reserves category and the remaining 371.03 million tonnes with a metal content of

405.69 tonnes under resources category. The resources include placer-type gold ore in Kerala

estimated at 26.12 million tonnes containing 5.86 tonnes gold metal. Largest resources of

gold one (primary) are located in Bihar followed by Karanataka, Rajasthan, West Bangal,

Andhra Pradesh Madhya Pradesh, etc. While in terms of metal content. Karnataka remained

on the top followed by Rajasthan, West Bengal, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh.

IRON ORE

Haematite and Magnetite are the most important iron ore in India. About 60%

haematite one deposits are found in the Eastern sector and about 87% magnetite deposits

occur in Southern sector, specially in Karnataka. The total resources of iron ore as per UNFC

are placed at 25,249 million tonnes as on 1.4.2005. Out of these, the iron ore (haemetite)

resources are placed at 14,630 million tonnes of which 13,916 million tonnes (95%)

resources are distributed mainly in Orissa. Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka and Goa. The

resources of very high grade ore are limited and are restricted mainly in Bailadila sector of

Chhattisgarh and to a lesser extent in Bellary-Hospet area of Karnataka and Barajamda sector

in Jharkhand and Orissa. Iron ore (magnetite) resources are placed at 10,619 million tonnes of

which only 59 million tonnes constitute reserves located mainly in Goa, Rajasthan and

Jharkhand.

The remaining 10,560 million tonnes (99%), magnetite resources are under

remaining resources category mainly in Karnataka (74%) and Andhra Pradesh (14%). Other

deposits are located in Goa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, Jharkhand, Nagaland,

Meghalaya, Bihar, Maharashtra and Orissa.

LEAD-ZINC

Lead-Zinc resources are located in Rajasthan, Bihar, Maharashtra, Madhya

Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Orissa, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu

and Meghalaya. The total resources of lead and zinc ores as on 1.4.2005 as per UNFC are

estimated at 522.58 million tonnes with a Metal content of 7207 thousand tonnes of lead

metal and 24260 thousand tonnes of zinc metal. Of these, 125.75 million tonnes with a Metal

content of 2591 thousand tonnes of lead metal and 11093 thousand tonnes of zinc metal fall

under ‘Reserves’ while balance 396.83 million tonnes are with a metal content of 4617

thousand tonnes lead metal and 13167 thousand tonnes of zinc metal classified as ‘Remaining

resources’.

MANGANESE

The total resources of manganese ore as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 are

placed at 379 million tonnes. Out of these, 138 million tonnes are categorized as reserves and

the balance 240 million tonnes in the remaining resources. Main deposits fall in Orissa,

followed by Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa and Andhra Pradesh. Minor

occurrences of manganese are in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jharkhand and West Bengal.

NICKEL

The total resources of Nickel ore as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 have

been estimated at 189 million tonnes. About 92% resources i.e. 174.48 million tonnes are in

Orissa and remaining 8% are distributed in Jharkhand, Nagaland and Karnataka.

TUNGSTEN

The total resources of tungsten ore as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 have

been estimated at 87.39 million tonnes with a WO3 content of 142094 tonnes. All these

resources are placed under ‘Remaining Resources’ category. The main deposits are Degana

in Nagaur district, Rajasthan. It also occurs in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra,

Haryana, West Bengal, Uttarakhand and West Bengal.

BARYTES

The total resources of barytes in India as on 1.4.2005 as per UNFC system are placed at 74

million tonnes of which about 46% (34 million tonnes) are in ‘Reserves’ category and 54%

(40 million tonnes) are in ‘Remaining Resources’ category. The Mangampet deposit in

Cuddapah district (Andhra Pradesh) is the single largest barytes deposit in the world. Andhra

Pradesh alone accounted for more than 94% country’s resources.

Minor occurrences of barytes are located in Rajasthan, West Bengal, Madhya

Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Karnataka

and Haryana.

DIAMOND

Diamond deposits occur in three types of geological settings such as kimberlite

pipes, conglomerate beds and alluvial gravels. The main diamond bearing areas in India are

Panna belt in Madhya Pradesh, Munimadugu-Banganapalie conglomerate in Kurnool district,

Wajrakarur kimberlite pipe in Anantapur district, the gravels of Krishna river basin in Andhra

Pradesh and dimendiferous kimbelite in Raipur, Bastar and Raigarh districts in Chhattisgarh.

Reserves have been estimated in Panna belt, Madhya Pradesh, Krishna Gravels in Andhra

Pradesh and in Raipur district, Chhattisgarh. As per the UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 are

placed at around 4582 thousand carats. Out of which about 1206 thousand carats are under

reserve category and remaining 3376 thousand carats are under remaining resources category.

DOLOMITE

Total resources of dolomite as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 are placed at

7533 million tonnes, out of which Reserves are 985 million tonnes and the balance i.e. 6548

million tonnes are in the ‘Remaining Resources’. Dolomite occurrences are widespread in

almost all parts of the country. The major share of about 90 per cent resources is distributed

in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Orissa, Karnataka, Gujarat,

Rajasthan and Maharashtra.

FIRECLAY

Fireclay occurs as a bedded deposit, mostly associated with coal measures of

Gondwana and Tertiary periods. Important deposits are associated with Jharia and Raniganj

coalfields in Jharkhand and West Bengal, Korba coalfield in Chhattisgarh and Neyveli

Lignite field in Tamil Nadu. Notable occurrences of fireclay not associated with coal

measures are known in the state of Gujarat, Jabalpur region of Madhya Pradesh and

Belpahar-Sundergarh areas of Orissa. The total resources of fireclay as per UNFC system as

on 1.4.2005, are about 705 million tonnes in India. Out of which 59 million tonnes and under

reserve category and about 646 million tonnes are under remaining resources category. It is

necessary to assess the fireclay reserves on priority basis, especially those associated with

coal measures in the leasehold areas. The reserves of fireclay are substantial but resources of

high grade (non-plastic) fireclay containing more than 37% alumina are limited.

FLUORSPAR

The total resources of fluorite as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 were estimated at 20.16

million tonnes. Out of these, 9.21 million tonnes were placed under ‘Reserves’ category and

the remaining 10.95 million tonnes under Remaining Resources’ category. Major deposits of

Fluorspar are located in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra.

GYPSUM

The total resources of mineral Gypsum as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005

were estimated at 1,237 million tonnes. Of these 69 million tonnes have been placed under

reserve and 1,168 million tonnes under 'Remaining Resources' The main occurrences of

gypsum are located in Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. Rajasthan

alone accounts for more than 80% country resource. Minor occurrences of gypsum are in

Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

GRAPHITE

As per the UNFC the total resources of graphite in the country as on 1.4.2005

are placed at about 168.77 million tonnes comprising 10.75 million tonnes in the reserves

category and remaining 158.02 million tonnes under resources category. Out of total

resources. Arunachal Pradesh accounts 43% followed by Jammu & Kashmir (37%),

Jharkhand (6%). Tamil Nadu (5%) and Orissa (3%). However, in term of reserves, Tamil

Nadu has major share of about 37%.

ILMENITE

The resources of Ilmenite are 461.37 million tonnes as per Department of

Atomic Energy. Ilmenite occurs mainly in beach sand deposits right from Ratnagiri

(Maharashtra) to coast in Kerala, Tamil Nadu & Orissa. The mineral is also found in Andhra

Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal.

KAOLIN

India possesses fairly large resources of china clay. The total resources as per

UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 are about 2596 million tonnes. Out of which, 222 million

tonnes are placed in reserves category. The occurrences of china clay are distributed in

Kerala, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Orissa, Karnataka, Jharkhand, Gujarat Meghalaya, Andhra

Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

LIMESTONE

The total resources of limestone of all categories and grades as per UNFC system as on

1.4.2005 are estimated at 175345 million tonnes. Of which 12715 million tonnesare under

'Reserves' category and 162630 million tonnes are under 'Remaining Resources' category.

Karnataka is the leading state followed by Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Meghalaya,

Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Maharashtra and Uttarakhand.

MICA

Important mica bearing pegmatite occurs in Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Bihar

and Rajasthan. The total resources of Mica in the country as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005

are estimated at 393855 tonnes, out of which only 68570 tonnes are placed under 'Reserves'

category. 'Remaining resources' are placed at 325285 tonnes. Rajasthan accounts for about

51% resources, followed by Andhra Pradesh Maharashtra and Bihar.

MAGNESITE

The total resources of magnesite as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 are about

338 million tonnes, of which reserves and remaining resources are 76 million tonnes and 262

million tonnes, respectively. Substantial quantities of resources are established in Uttarkhand

(68%) followed by Rajasthan (16%) and Tamil Nadu (13%) Andhra Pradesh, Himachal

Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka and Kerala contribute for the balance.

KYANITE AND SILLIMANITE

The total resources of kyanite and sillimanite as per UNFC system as on

1.4.2005 are 103 million tonnes and 74 million tonnes, respectively. Out of these the reserves

categories are 1.4 million tonnes for kyanite and 11 million tonnes for sillimanite. Kyanite

deposits are located in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh,

Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Sillimanite resources are located mainly in Orissa,

Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Assam and West Bengal with minor

occurrences in Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Meghalaya and

Rajasthan.

PHOSPHATE MINERALS

Deposits of phosphorites are located in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan,

Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. Besides, apatite deposits of commercial

importance are reported from Jharkhand, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and

Rajasthan. The total resources of apatite as per UNFC system as on 1.4.2005 are placed at

26.86 million tonnes, out of which 6 million tonnes are under reserves category and about 21

million tonnes are under remaining resources category. Out of the total resources, the bulk

61% are located in West Bengal. The total resources of rock phosphate as per UNFC system

as on 1.4.2005 are placed at 305 million tonnes. out of which 53 million tonnes are placed

under reserves and 252 million tonnes under remaining resources category. Bulk of reserves

are located in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

OTHER MINERALS

Other minerals occurring in significant quantities in India are bentonite

(Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand and Jammu & Kashmir), corundum (Karnataka,

Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh), calcite (Andhra Pradesh,

Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat),

fuller’s earth (Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam Madhya Pradesh and

Karnataka) garnet (Tamil Nadu, Orissa Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Kerala), pyrites

(Bihar, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh), steatite

(Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh),

wollastonite (Rajasthan and Gujarat), zircon (beach sand of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra

Pradesh and Orissa) and quartz and silica minerals are widespread and occur in nearly all

states. Besides, the country has vast marble, slate and sandstone deposits. Granite is mainly

mined in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan; marble in Rajasthan,

Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh; slate in Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh and sandstone in

Rajasthan.

MINERAL AND METAL PRODUCTION

Indian produces as many as 86 minerals which include 4 fuel, 10 metalic, 46 nonmetalic, 3

atomic minerals and 23 minor minerals (including building and other materials). The total

value of country's mineral production in 2008-09 is estimated to be about Rs. 115981 crores,

an increased of about 7% over the previous year. Of this, fuel minerals constituted Rs. 73063

crores (63%), metalic minerals for Rs. 29189 crores (25%) and non-metalic minerals

including minor minerals of about Rs. 13728 crores (12%). The production of selected

minerals for the years 2006-07 to 2008-09 are as follows.

Figures rounded off.

M. Tonnes - Million tonnes, 000 tonnes; thousand tonnes; M.C.M. Million cubic metre.

Kg.Kilogram

(P): Provisional and based on monthly returns to the extent available with IBM

(R ) : Revised figures

(E) : Estimated figures

* : Excludes the production of Fireclay, if any re covered incidental to coal mining.

Note:

( 1 ) The value figures pertain to pithead value

( 2 ) Date based on the returns received under MCDR 1988 except coal, lignite,

petroleum (crude) natural gas (utilised) and minor minerals.

Source:

a) Coal and Lignite Coal Controller Kolkata

b) Petroleum (crude) and National Gas Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. New

Delhi

c) Minor Minerals State Government

ORGANIZATIONS UNDER THE MINISTRY

The Ministry has following attached/subordinate offices. Public Sector

undertakings, disinvested companies and research organization under its administrative

control.

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA (GSI)

Geological Survey of India, the premier earth science organization of the

country, is the principal provider of basic earth science information to the government.

Industry and the geoscientific sector. The vibrant steel, coal, metals, cement and power

industries which expanded phenomenally in the post-independence era, bear eloquent

testimony to the GSI's contribution too national development. Beginning as a department

engaged primarily in research for coal, GSI in the last 158 years has expanded its activities

manifold and has been involved either directly or indirectly in almost all areas of nation

building. GSI is now the custodian of one of the largest and most comprehensive earth

science database developed over the last one and half century. Its Charter of operation

(revised, 21st May, 2009) laid down by the Government of India, detailing the scope of

activities and responsibilities of the GSI encompasses practically the entire gamut of earth

science activities. The Charter reflects the broad responsibility of GSI extending from the

lofty peaks of the Himalaya to the remote continent of Antrctica and from the desert to the

ocean and into the sky. Creation and updation of national geoscientific information and

knowledge base through ground. Marine and airborne surveys and their dissemination are the

primary goals of GSI. It has Central Head Quarters at Kolkata. six regional offices at Nagpur,

Kolkata, Shillong, Lucknow, Hyderabad and Jaipur besides a Airborne Miner Surveys and

Exploration wing, Bangalore; Marine Wing, Kolkata; Coal Wing, Kolkata and Training

Institute, Hyderabad.

INDIAN BUREAU OF MINES (IBM)

Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) established on 1st March 1948, is a

multidisciplinary scientific and technical organisation under Ministry of Mines, with statutory

and developmental responsibilities for conservation and systematic exploitation of Mineral

resources other than coal, petroleum and natural gas, atomic minerals and minor minerals.

IBM has its headquarter at Nagpur with 3 Zonal Offices. 12 Regional Offices and 2 Sub-

Regional offices spread all over the country, apart from the Modern Minister Processing

Laboratory Pilot Plant constructed with UNDP assistance at Nagpur. Two Regional Ore

Dressing Laboratories and Pilot Plants are in operation at Ajmer and Bangaluru. The Indian

Bureau of Mines (IBM) performs regulatory functions, namely enforcement of the Mineral

Conservation and Development Rules, 1988, the relevant provisions of the Mines and

Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. Mineral Concession Rules, 1960 and

Environmental (Protection) Act 1986 and Rules made thereunder. It also undertakes

scientific, techno-economic, research oriented studies in various aspects of mining geological

studies, ore beneficiation and environmental studies.

IBM provides technical consultancy services to the mining industry for the

geological appraisal of mineral resources, and the preparation of feasibility report of mining

projects, including beneficiation plants. It prepares mineral maps and countrywide inventory

of mineral resources of leasehold and freehold areas. It also promotes and monitors

community development activities in mining areas. IBM also functions as Data Bank of

Mines and Minerals and publishes statistical information. It also brings out technical

publications/monographs on individual mineral commodities and bulletins of topical interest.

It advises the Central and State Governments on all aspects of mineral industry, trade,

legislation etc.

PUBLIC SECTOR AND DISINVESTED COMPANIES

The Ministry of Mines has four public sector undertaking (PSUs) under its administrative

control National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO). Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL)

& Bharat Gold Mines Limited (BGML) are operating in the field of mining and mineral

processing, and Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL) is operating in the field of

mineral exploration. The BGML however is closed since March 2001. In addition the

Government holds 49% equity in Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO) and

29.54% equity in Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) after their disinvestment. The performance

of these undertakings in 2008-09 is given below.

National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO)

National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), largest integrated

Alumina- Aluminium Plant Complex in India, was incorporated on 7th January, 1981 with its

registered office at Bhubaneswar. After completion of first phase expansion at an investment

of Rs. 4200 crore in 2004. NALCO has presently installed capacity of 4.8 Million Tonnes Per

Year (MTPY) Bauxite Mine and 1.575 MTPY of Alumina Refinery at Panchapatmali, and

0.345 MTPY Aluminium Smelter at Angul. It has 960 MW (8X120) MW Capative Power

Plant at Angul, all in Orissa and Port Handling Facilities at Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)

for export of alumina and import of caustic soda. The Company also utilizes Kolkata and

Paradeep Ports for export of Aluminium. NALCO had been granted Navratna status on

28.4.2008. Second phase expansion of NALCO’s Integrated Alumina-Aluminium Complex,

at an outlay of Rs. 4091.51 crore, at July 2003 price level, approved by the Government in

October 2004, envisaging augmentation of Bauxite Mines capacity from 4.8 MTPY to 6.3

MTPY, Alumina Refinery capacity from 1.575 MTPA to 2.1 MTPA,Aluminium Smelter

capacity from 0.345 MTPA to 0.46 MTPA and Captive Power Plant (CPP) capacity from 960

MW (8x120 MW) to 1200 MW (10x120) is presently under implementation. The company is

one of the lowest cost producers of alumina & aluminium in the world due to highly efficient

operation and very high asset utilization with benchmark in smelling technology. With

sustained quality products, the Company's export earnings account for nearly 40% of the

sales turnover. NALCO has been exploring to set up new projects in the country and abroad.

The company is examining possibilities to set up a 5 lakh Tonnes Per Annum (TPA) smelter

at an investment of 1.3 billion in Indonesia, and 1.55 lakh TPA smelter in first phase and a

1.55 lakh TPA smelter alongwith gas based power plant in second phase at an estimated cost

of Used 3 billion in Iron NALCO plans to set up a 42 lakh TPA bauxite mines and 14 lakh

TPA alumina refinery complex in Andhra Pradesh involving an investment of Rs. 7000

crores.

The Company exports its products to more than 30 countries worldwide. The

Company has also opened stockyards in various parts of India to facilitate domestic

marketing. With its consistent track record in capacity utilization, technology absorption,

quality assurance, exports performance and posting of profits, NALCO is a bright example of

India's industrial capability.

Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL)

HCL, a public sector undertaking under the administrative Control of the

Ministry of Mines, was incorporated on 9th November, 1967 under the Companies Act, 1956.

It was established as a Govt. of India Enterprise to take over all plants, projects, schemes and

studies pertaining to the exploration and exploitation of copper deposits, including smelting

and refining from National Mineral Development Corporation Ltd. It has the distinction of

being the nation's only vertically integrated copper producing company as it manufactures

copper right from the stage of mining to beneficiation, smelting, refining and casting of

refined copper metal into downstream saleable products.

The company markets copper cathodes, continuous cast copper rod and by

products, such as anode slime (containing gold, silver, etc.) copper sulphate and sulphuric

acid. More than 90% of the sales revenue is from cathode and continuous cast copper rods.

HCL's mines and plants are spread across four operating units, one each in the States of

Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Maharashtra as named below. Khetri Copper

Complex (KCC) at Khetrinagar, Rajasthan, Indian Copper Complex (ICC) at Ghatsila,

Jharkhand, Malanjkhand Copper Project (MCP) at Malanjkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Taloja

Copper Project (TCP) at Taloja, Maharashtra. The Government of India nationalized the only

copper producing company in the private sector, Indian Copper Corporation Ltd, at Ghatsila

in Jharkhand in March; 1972 and handed over its management and ownership too Hindustan

Copper Limited. The smelter plant at Khetri Copper Complex (KCC) in Rajasthan with

capacity of 31000 tonnes was dedicated to the nation on 5th February, 1975. In November,

1982, Malanjkhand Copper Project comprising of a large and fully mechanized open pit mine

and concentrator plant was dedicated to the nation. The continuous cast copper rod plant at

Taloja Copper Project of Hindustan Copper Ltd was commissioned in December, 1989 with

an installed capacity of 60000 tonnes. The total installed annual capacity of HCL is 49500

tonnes of refined copper during 2008-09; HCL produced 27589 tonnes of metal-in-

concentrate, 30035 tonnes of refined copper and 51777 tonnes of wire rod. During the year

2007-08, HCL achieved a turnover of Rs. 1839.79 crore with a net profit of Rs. 246.46 crore

after tax. The accounts of 2008-09 are under finalization.

Production of copper concentrate and value in 2008-09

Production - 1,26,600 MT

Value - Rs. 323 crore

Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL)

The Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL) since inception in the

year 1972 is carrying out mineral exploration activities. So far, it has added 1,36,376 million

tones of mineral reserves to National Mineral Inventory. The Company manages the

functioning of projects through a 2 tier system from the Corporate office at Nagpur. To

facilitate the prompt maintenance of plants and machineries deployed at various projects,

three Regional Maintenance Centres at Ranchi, Nagpur and Hyderabad are being operated

Technical guidance to the Project, finalization of geological reports, close liaisoning with the

clients and looking for new business opportunities is being carried out through the Zonal

Offices located at Ranchi, Nagpur and Hyderabad.

MECL's gross revenue was Rs. 105.90 crore. It has recorded net profit of Rs.

1.24 crore (After EOI & taxes). A total of 5695 million tonnes of reserves for coal, lignite,

copper, lead-zinc and iron ore have been added in National Mineral inventory during, 2008-

09.

Bharat Gold Mines Limited (BGML)

Bharat Gold Mines Limited (BGML) having registered office at Kolar Gold Fields, was

incorporated as a public sector company under the Ministry of Mines, on 1st April 1972. It

was engaged in mining and production of gold from its captive mines. The company was

referred to the Board for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction (BIFR) who gave its verdict

in June 2000 to wind up BGML in public interest. The verdict of BIFR was upheld by

Appellate Authority for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction (AAIFR). The company was

closed after the Ministry of Labour, accorded permission for closure of BGML w.e.f. 1

March 2001. After prolonged litigation the Division Bench of High Court of Karnataka in its

order dated 26 September 2003 has also upheld the winding up/closure orders passed by

BIFR/AAIFR and Ministry of Labour. The Court has made certain recommendations which

are under consideration of the Government. Government of India, on 27.7.2006, have

approved a proposal regarding Special Terminal Benefit Package (STBP) for Bharat Gold

Mines Limited ex-employees, sale of houses to the employees of BGML at nominal rates.

Calling of global tender for sale of assets and giving purchase preference to the Employees

Co-operative Society/Society’s Company subject to the approval of the High Court of

Karnataka (Company Court) and viability of the project. Company Application has been filed

in the Hon’ble High Court of Karnataka (Company Court) which is being perused. As per the

Government decision. STBP amount has been distributed to the exemployees of BGML and

allotment of the houses at the rates suggested by the High Court of Karnataka (Company

Court) is under process. An Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) was also constituted to oversee

the tendering process of BGML. A consultant was appointed for assets valuation of the

company, preparation of global tender documents and assisting in global tendering process

etc. The Consultant had submitted draft global Tendering documents which have been placed

by BGML before the Hon'ble High Court of Karnataka (Company Court) for approval. The

matter has since been under consideration of the Hon'ble Court.

Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO)

Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO) was incorporated on 27th

November, 1965 as a Central Public Sector Undertaking with an integrated

Alumina/Aluminium Complex and a 270 MW Captive Power Plant at Korba presently in

Chhattisgarh. The Government of India disinvested 51 % equity in the Company along with

the transfer of management control in favour of M/s Sterlite Industries (India) Limited with

effect from 2nd March, 2001 and consequently, the Company has ceased to be public sector

undertaking. Post disinvestment, BALCO has implemented the expansion at a cost of over

Rs. 4000 crores leading to threefold increase in capacities. The smelter capacity has been

increased to 3,45,000 MT per annum from 1,00,000 MT per annum and the capacity of the

captive power plant from 270MW to 810 MW. The expanded capacity was fully

commissioned in the third quarter of 2006-07.

The Company has signed an MOU with the Government of Chhattisgarh in

October, 2006 for setting up a 1200 MW Power Plant at an estimated cost of Rs. 4800 crores.

The Company has commenced implementation of the power project and the project is

expected to be fully commissioned in 2010-11. The Company has signed an MOU with

Government of Chhattisgarh in August, 2007 for expanding its aluminium smelting by setting

up of additional 6.5. lakh TPA aluminium smelter at an estimated cost of Rs. 8100 crores, out

of which setting up of 3.25 lakh TPA aluminium smelter at a cost of Rs. 3800 crores is

envisaged in the first phase.

Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL)

Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) was incorporated in January 1966 as a public

sector undertaking after the takeover of the erstwhile Metal Corporation of India Limited, to

develop mining and smelting capacities to substantially meet the domestic demand of zinc

and lead metals. HZL's operations are broad-based and its activities range from exploration,

mining and ore processing to smelting and refining of lead, zinc together with recovery of by

products like silver, cadmium and sulphuric acid. Government of India disinvested its 26%

equity in HZL in favour of M/s Sterlite Opportunities and Ventures Ltd (SOVL) on 28th

March, 2002, and the management control of the company was also transferred to SOVL on

11th April, 2002, Subsequently, SOVL acquired 20% equity shares of HZL from the market

through its open offer. On 11th November, 2003. Government of India further off-loaded

18.92% of its equity in HZL in favour of SOVL in terms of the Shareholders Agreement. The

current shareholding of SOVL in HZL is 64.92% and the Government of India is 29.54%.

HZL with its headquarters at Udaipur operates lead-zinc mines with a total capacity of 7.1

million tonnes per annum and lead-zinc smelters with a total lead-zinc metal production

capacity of 762.000 tonnes annum. During the year 2007-08. HZL commissioned Phase-II

expansion comprising 170,000 tonnes per annum hydro zinc smelter, 80 MW thermal captive

power plant and expansion of Rampura Agucha Mine from 3.75 MT per annum to 5 MT per

annum. It has further increased zinc production capacity by 8,000 tonnes per annum by de-

bottlenecking. During the year 2008-09 HZL commissioned another 80 MW thermal captive

plant. The Company has undertaken Phase-III expansion programme, which includes 210,000

tonnes per annum hydro zinc smelter, 100,000 tonnes per annum lead smelter along with

expansion is its lead-zinc mining capacities and 160 MW thermal captive power plant.

National Institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM)

The National institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM) is a premier center for

research in applied and basic rock mechanics. Set up under the Ministry of Mines.

Government of India, the Institute provides research and consultancy services for improving

safety and productivity in the mining and civil engineering sectors. It is an ISO-9001 : 2008

certified research Institute NIRM has carrying out research work through both government -

funded and industry sponsored S & T and consultancy projects. The institute has been

extending its support to the industry in areas:

• Engineering Geology,

• Engineering Geophysics

• Geotechnical Engineering

• Rock Fracture Mechanics & Materials Testing.

• Engineering Seismology

• Numerical Modelling. Rock Blasting & Excavation Engineering.

• Mine Design & Ground Control Microseismics & Automation.

• Environmental Engineering and Dimensional Stone Technology.

National Institute of Miners Health (NIMH)

National Institute of Miners Health (NIMH) Nagpur was established for promotion of

occupational health & hygiene in mining and mineral based industries and for development

of trained manpower in these fields. It was registered as Society in the State of Karnataka. On

closure of BGML, a camp office was established at Amravati Road. Wadi, Nagpur in 2002.

The Institute has state - of - the - art infrastructure, equipments and highly trained manpower

to conduct and carry out. • Detailed initial and periodic medical examinations as per Mines

Rules, 1955.

• Clinical investigations like routine hematological tests, blood biochemistry, audiometry,

spirometry, electrocardiography.

• Computerized vision screening.

• Exposure assessment of individual subjects for noise, dust and vibration using personal

dosimeters.

• Risk assessment of work environment for dust, noise, vibration.

• Risk characterization of dust for free silica (using FTIR), heavy metals (using AAS) etc.

• Specialized tests in clinical biochemistry, Protein Biomarkers, Electrophoresis, ELISA,

Spectrophotometric analysis.

• HRD activities in mine related health and hygiene issues.

Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Center (JNARDDC).

Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre, Nagpur is a "Centre

of Excellence" set up in 1989 and became fully functional since 1996. The Centre was

conceived as the major R & D support system for the emerging modern aluminium industry

in India. The Centre has well-established facilities for R&D activities in the field of bauxite.

Alumina and aluminium. Its principal preoccupation is with all aspects of Bayer process for

conversion from bauxite to alumina and electrolytic smelting from alumina to aluminium.

The Centre has successfully completed many major projects awarded by both

primary & secondary aluminium producers, bauxite mine owners / importers and also by

Ministry of Mines. There has been a steady increase in the internal revenue generation over

the last five years. The Centre also offers analytical and testing facilities to other non-ferrous

industries. steel plants, small-scale industries, R&D Organisations and Academic Institutions

particularly in the areas of chemical and mineralogical analysis. Power characterisation,

thermal mapping, micro structural studies. Mechanical and non destructive testing, failure

analysis and technical information.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMME

Introduction : Science & Technology programme of the Ministry of Mines was initiated in

1978 with the view to encourage research and development of indigenous technology in the

minerals and non-ferrous metal sectors. Till now 137 projects have been completed and 7

projects are under implementation.

The underlying principle behind this programme had been the utilization of the

available mineral resources in a judicious, economically efficient and environmentally

sustainable manner. An important component of this programme had been the selection of

research and development projects of national priorities including those related to

benefication of the lean ores, techniques for extracting metals from mine wastes and plant

tailings being by products.

Project proposals from various Government institutions, public sector

undertakings universities and other research organizations engaged in the mineral and mining

sectors are reviewed by a group of experts of Project Evaluation & Review Committee

(PERC). Suitable projects of national priorities and thrust areas are approved by a high level

Standing Scientific Advisory Group (SSAG).