Mineral Resources of Odisha

Mineral Resources of Odisha: disha, located on the eastern coast of India, is a region abundantly blessed with a wide range of mineral resources. The state is rich in reserves of various minerals, making it a highly sought-after destination. Some of the prominent minerals found in Odisha include:

  1. Bauxite: Odisha boasts substantial reserves of bauxite, which is a crucial raw material for the production of aluminum. The state’s bauxite deposits are of great significance to the aluminum industry.
  2. China Clay: Odisha is known for its large deposits of high-quality china clay, also known as kaolin. China clay finds extensive applications in industries such as ceramics, paper, paint, rubber, and more.
  3. Chromite: The state of Odisha is renowned for its significant chromite reserves, which are vital for the production of chromium alloys and stainless steel.
  4. Coal: Odisha is home to vast coal reserves, which play a pivotal role in meeting the energy requirements of the country. Coal mining is a significant economic activity in the state.
  5. Dolomite: The state possesses abundant reserves of dolomite, which finds application in the iron and steel industry, cement production, and agricultural practices.
  6. Fireclay: Odisha has rich deposits of fireclay, which is extensively used in the manufacturing of refractories, ceramics, and other heat-resistant products.
  7. Graphite: The state is known for its graphite reserves, which are essential for various industrial applications such as electrodes, lubricants, and high-temperature uses.
  8. Gemstones: Odisha boasts a diverse range of gemstone resources, including diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and garnets. These precious gemstones attract attention from the gem and jewelry industry.
  9. Iron Ore: Odisha stands as one of the largest producers of iron ore in India. The state’s iron ore reserves are crucial for the iron and steel industry, catering to both domestic consumption and exports.
  10. Limestone: Odisha is rich in limestone reserves, which are utilized in the cement industry, construction, and various other industrial applications.

Additionally, the recent discovery of diamonds in the Dharambandha area of Nuapada district by the State Directorate of Geology has added another valuable mineral resource to the state’s repertoire. Other minerals found in Odisha include copper ore, lead ore, titanium-bearing vanadiferous magnetite, talc/soapstone, and high magnesia igneous rocks. The thriving mineral industry has turned Odisha into a prominent hotspot, attracting entrepreneurs from around the world who seek to capitalize on the wealth of opportunities available.

In view of its vast mineral resources and excellently preserved rock record ranging in age from Early Precambrian to Recent, the state represents a veritable paradise for earth scientists and justifiably remained the hunting ground for geologists ever since the beginning of geological studies in India in the 1850s. Since then, for over a century, several scientific studies were made. These include:

  • Recognition of the Talcher boulder bed, postulation of early Gondwana glaciation hypothesis and discovery of the coal measures of Talcher and Ib river basins (Oldham, 1856; Blanford, 1872 and Ball, 1877)
  • Studies on aluminous laterites and bauxites (Ball, 1877; Fox, 1934, 1942 and Krishnan, 1935)
  • Coining of the term Khondalite for the high grade metasupra-crustals of the Eastern Ghats belt after the Khond inhabitants of Kalahandi (Walker, 1902)
  • Discovery of major iron ore deposits at Gorumahisani – Badampahar area of Mayurbhanj (Bose, 1907) and discovery of Tertiary beds near Baripada (Bose, 1904)
  • Classification of manganese ores (Fermor, 1909)
  • Studies on charnockite rocks (Fermor, 1911; Crookshank, 1938; Ghosh, 1941)
  • Delineation of major iron-ore deposits of Bonai–Keonjhar region (Jones, 1934)
  • Studies on Gangpur Group of metasediments (Krishnan, 1937)
  • Identification of Late Quaternary volcanic ash in major river basins of Odisha (Devdas & Meshram, 1991)

Geological Formations of Minerals

The mineral wealth of Odisha can be attributed to its favorable geological setup, which has contributed to the formation of abundance of various mineral resources. The state is situated on the eastern fringe of the peninsular India, with approximately 72.5% of its area occupied by Precambrian metamorphic rocks of Archaean and Proterozoic age. These rocks serve as the primary host for the majority of minerals found in Odisha.

The Gondwanas, which host the coal resources, are another significant geological formation in Odisha, covering around 8% of the land mass. The Tertiary and Quaternary formations occupy the remaining area and provide favorable conditions for the occurrence of aluminous/nickeliferous laterite and heavy minerals found in beach sand deposits.

In northern Odisha, the Archaean rocks consist of supracrustal belts comprising metasedimentary rocks, including the Iron Ore Super Group. These rocks contain valuable deposits of iron, manganese, gold, and base metals. The Archaean rocks also include gneisses, granite, migmatite, and mafic/ultramafic intrusives. These intrusives are associated with minerals such as chromite, titaniferous vanadiferous magnetite, and platinum group metals (PGM). The Bastar cratonic complex in western Odisha, also of Archaean age, consists of gneisses, granite, migmatite, and pegmatites rich in strontium, tantalum, and niobium.

Proterozoic rocks in western Odisha exhibit platformal sedimentary formations and are accompanied by limestone deposits. The Gangpur Group, classified as low to medium metamorphic grade metasediments, hosts manganese, limestone, and lead-zinc deposits in the northwestern part of the state. In central and southern Odisha, the Proterozoic formations are represented by the Eastern Ghats granulite belt, which comprises rocks such as khondalite, charnockite, migmatite, anorthosite, and alkaline rocks. These formations are responsible for the mineralization of bauxite, manganese, graphite, and gemstones in the region.

The Mesozoic rocks of the Gondwana Super Group in Odisha are the primary host for the state’s significant coal resources. Additionally, formations of Cenozoic age, found in the eastern coastal plains, consist of alluvial sediments, ash beds, and low-level laterite, providing favorable conditions for the occurrence of beach sand minerals and building materials. Moreover, the deltaic fans extending into offshore regions serve as potential hosts for oil and gas reserves.

Overall, the diverse geological formations in Odisha have contributed to the rich mineral endowment of the state, attracting attention from various industries and investors seeking to tap into its mineral resources.

Classification of Minerals (BN Sinha)

  • Archean sedimentary – Iron Ore, Manganese Ore, Slate, Quartzite, Ochre
  • Granite gneisses – China Clay, Building Stone, Road Metal
  • Pegmatite – Mica, Feldspar, Beryl, Rose Quartz
  • Other veins in Archaens – Graphite, Lead, Sandstone
  • Cuddapah system – Coal, Fire Clay, China Clay, Sandstone, Ochre
  • Laterite – Building Stone, Bauxite, Lithomarge, Iron Ore, Manganese Ore, Ochre
  • Alluvium – Kankar, Brick and Potter’s Clay, Sand, Gold, Iron Ore, Manganese Ore

Odisha boasts a significant share of India’s mineral reserves, making it a vital contributor to the country’s mineral wealth. The state holds remarkable reserves of chromite, nickel, bauxite, iron ore, and coal, accounting for approximately 83%, 92%, 55%, 38%, and 26% respectively of India’s total reserves in these minerals. Some of these minerals also hold a prominent position on the world’s mineral map, further highlighting the significance of Odisha’s mineral wealth.

Mining revenue plays a pivotal role in Odisha’s non-tax revenue segment. In the fiscal year 2012–13, mining revenue stood at a substantial amount of INR 5352.94 crore, slightly lower than the targeted revenue of INR 5700 crore. The previous year, in 2011–12, the mining revenue collection amounted to INR 4586.64 crore. These figures underscore the economic importance of the mining industry in the state.

Major Metals

Iron Ore

Iron ore is a significant mineral resource in Odisha, with a rich history of exploration and production. The first discovery of iron ore in the state was made by P.N. Bose in 1904, marking the beginning of a thriving iron ore industry. Odisha boasts vast reserves of high-grade iron ore, characterized by an average iron (Fe) content of over 60%.

The state of Odisha contributes about 15.79% of the total iron ore production in the country. Among the districts in Odisha, Keonjhar district leads the production with a share of 61.66%, followed by Sundargarh district at 31.37%. Cuttack and Mayurbhanj districts also contribute to iron ore production with shares of 4.22% and 2.74% respectively.

In Nawarangpur district, near Hirapur Hill, there is an estimated reserve of 2.65 million tonnes of iron ore with a 60% Fe content. The ore found in this region is typically massive, hard, compact, and exhibits a steel grey to dark and brownish black color. Different varieties of iron ore are found in Odisha, including hard ores (steel grey to brownish, massive and laminated), moderately hard ores (laminated), soft ores (flaky, friable, and powdery), and lateritic ores. These varieties may transition gradually from one type to another without a sharp line of division.

The presence of abundant and diverse iron ore deposits in Odisha has attracted significant attention from the mining industry. The state plays a crucial role in meeting the iron ore demand of the country and contributes to the economic growth of the region. The exploration, extraction, and processing of iron ore in Odisha have created employment opportunities and stimulated industrial development in related sectors.

Manganese Ore

Odisha is a major contributor to India’s manganese production, accounting for one-third of the country’s annual output. The state possesses the second-largest recoverable manganese reserve in the country, with a total of 50.36 million tons across all grades, surpassed only by Karnataka’s reserve of 64.55 million tons. Manganese deposits in Odisha are primarily found within four distinct geographical belts, all of which are restricted to the Precambrian rocks.

  1. Bonai–Kendujhar Belt: The Bonai–Kendujhar manganese ore belt, located in North Odisha, is well-known for its low phosphorous manganese ore, which is highly suitable for the domestic steel industry in Eastern India. Approximately 60% of the state’s manganese production comes from this belt. It is a narrow belt that trends in a NNE–SSW direction and stretches for approximately 60 km in length and 25 km in width. The belt comprises a group of slightly metamorphosed volcano-sedimentary rock sequences of Precambrian age.
  2. Kuting–Nishikhal–Ambadola–Patna Belt: Manganese ore deposits in southern Odisha occur as discontinuous bands within three parallel shear zones, primarily confined to Rayagada and Koraput districts. The Nishikhal deposit, currently being worked by the Odisha Mining Corporation Ltd., is the most promising deposit in southern Odisha, contributing to nearly 70% of the total reserves. However, production is limited due to the high phosphorous content in the ores. Most of the other deposits in this belt are ferruginous and therefore of lower grade, with manganese content ranging from 25% to 35%, except for a few deposits that contain ores with more than 40% manganese. The phosphorous content in these deposits ranges from 0.1% to 0.86%.
  3. Balangir District: Manganese ore occurrences in Balangir district are confined to a 25 km long belt consisting of lateritised schists of the Khondalitic suite. The ore bodies occur as bands and pockets with steep dips, with widths of up to 5 meters. The richest concentrations are found at the contact with calc-granulites. Important deposits in Balangir district include Dungriapalli, Bhaludungri, Godashankar, and Kapilabahali.
  4. Sundergarh District: Manganese ore in Sundergarh district is associated with gondlitic rocks in a 64 km long belt. The gondlite occurs as discontinuous bodies within mica schist and phyllites of the Gangpur Group. These deposits are structurally conformable with the associated rocks and extend up to 300 meters in length with a thickness exceeding 6 meters. Significant deposits are located at Manomunda, Ghorijhar, and Kharkamunda, with manganese content in these ores reaching up to 58%.

In addition, manganese ore occurs in an intensively laterized zone approximately 25 km long in the Bamra sub-division of Sambalpur District. The ore is sporadically distributed within the laterite formation.

Manganese ore extracted from these deposits is utilized in various industries, including the iron and steel industry, ferro-manganese industry, dry cell (battery) manufacturing, and chemical industry. The manganese reserves in Odisha play a crucial role in supporting these industries, both within the state and across the country.

Chromite

Odisha holds the first position in terms of both reserves and production of chromite ore in India, contributing to over 97% of the country’s output. The state is known for its deposits of metallurgical refractory and chemical-grade chromite ore, primarily found in Jajpur, Dhenkanal, and Keonjhar districts. The ores are typically present in the form of bands, lenses, and disseminations within altered peridotites and serpentinites.

Here are the details of chromite ore deposits in different districts of Odisha:

  1. Jajpur District: The ultramafic field of the Sukinda area is mainly located in Jajpur district, with a small portion extending into Dhenkanal district. The area forms an east-west trending valley, bounded by the Daitari hill ranges to the north and Mahagiri hill ranges to the south. The valley gradually widens towards the west and has an elevation of around 130 meters, with several lateritic and chert mounds rising up to a maximum of 200 meters. The chromite ore in this region is of magmatic origin. It is also found in the Kandragadia area, Sukrangi–Sarubali–Kumardala area, and various other places. Different mining agencies operating in the Sukinda area include Odisha Mining Corporation Ltd., Tata Iron and Steel Company, Ferro Alloys Corporation, Industrial Development Corporation, Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys, M/s B.C. Mohanty, and M/s M.L. Jain & Company.
  2. Dhenkanal District: The western part of the Sukinda ultramafic complex extends into Dhenkanal district. Chromite occurrences are also reported from the Bhuban area located south of the Mahagiri range. Other chromite occurrences in Dhenkanal district include Katpal, Maulabhanj Parbat, Asurbandh, Birasal, Ghotringa, and the Kandagaida area.
  3. Kendujhar District: The Nuasahi area in Kendujhar district contains ultramafic rocks that intrude a sequence of metasedimentary lithounits of the Iron Ore Supergroup. A narrow zone of ultramafic rocks, situated between two ridges of banded chert, has been reported in the area northeast of Gobardhanpur, approximately 15 km east of the Sukinda ultramafic belt. The region is covered by extensive laterite.
  4. Baleshwar District: Small outcrops of ultramafic rocks are exposed in and around the Bhalukasuni area under the Nilgiri subdivision of Baleshwar district.
  5. Koraput District: Occurrences of low-grade lumpy ferruginous chromite ore with low silica and high alumina have been reported about 3 km south of Ramagiri and in adjoining areas of Koraput district. The area is covered by soil and laterite.
  6. Sundergarh District: Several small intrusive patches of ultrabasic rocks, including pyroxenite and peridotite, are found as isolated mounds and elongated hillocks within the Bonai Granite around Bhaludungri and neighboring areas in Sundergarh district.

Chromite ores extracted from these deposits find applications in various industries. They are used in the production of chromium metal, as well as in the manufacturing of various alloys with iron, nickel, cobalt, tungsten, and other metals. Chromium compounds derived from chromite ore are utilized in the refractory industry. The rich chromite reserves in Odisha contribute significantly to meeting the demand for these materials in both domestic and international markets.

Nickel Ore

Nickel ore is found in association with limonitised and silicified ultrabasic rocks in two main regions of Odisha: the Sukinda area of Jajpur district and the Simlipal area of Mayurbhanj district.

  • In Jajpur District: The Sukinda ultramafic complex in Jajpur District sporadically exhibits nickel enrichment in its limonitic cappings. The nickel ore in this region is classified as lateritic type, and its formation is closely linked to intense weathering and limonitisation of the silicified ultramafic rocks. The nickeliferous limonite is light in color, highly porous, and typically ranges from brownish yellow to yellow. It also has a calcareous (calcium-rich) nature. Several known occurrences of nickel deposits exist in this area, including the Kana sector, Kamardah–Sarubali–Sukerangi sector, Kaliapani sector, and TISCO sector. The nickel deposits in the Sukinda area comprise both high-grade and low-grade ores.
  • In Mayurbhanj District: Within the Simlipal area of Mayurbhanj District, nickel is concentrated within chemically weathered ultramafic rocks of the Amjori sill. This particular nickel-rich zone spans an area of approximately 13 square kilometers, located in the central part of the Simlipal Complex. Nickel is also found in the laterite and soil cover in this region.

Nickel ore extracted from these deposits serves various industrial purposes. One of its primary applications is in the production of stainless steel, where nickel contributes to the alloy’s corrosion resistance and strength. Additionally, nickel is widely used in nickel plating processes, providing a protective and decorative coating on various surfaces. It is also utilized in coil making for electronic industries due to its excellent electrical conductivity and magnetic properties.

Other Metals

Vanadiferous Magnetite

The north Odisha region is known for its abundant deposits of vanadiferous magnetite, which are found in association with a specific rock suite known as gabbro-anorthosite. These deposits are distributed across five distinct belts within the region, namely Bisoi-Rairangpur, Bisoi-Jasipur, Baripada-Udala in Mayurbhanj district, and Nuasahi-Baula and Rangmatia-Betai in Kendujhar and Balasore districts.

  • The first belt, Bisoi-Rairangpur, is characterized by significant occurrences of vanadiferous magnetite in close proximity to gabbro-anorthosite rocks. This area holds promising potential for the extraction and utilization of vanadium resources.
  • The second belt, Bisoi-Jasipur, also exhibits significant deposits of vanadiferous magnetite alongside gabbro-anorthosite rocks. These deposits contribute to the overall vanadium resources of the region, making it an important area for mining and exploration activities.
  • The Baripada-Udala belt, located in the Mayurbhanj district, similar occurrences of vanadiferous magnetite in association with gabbro-anorthosite rocks can be observed. This belt adds to the rich vanadium reserves of the north Odisha region.
  • The Nuasahi-Baula belt, situated in Kendujhar district, is another notable area where deposits of vanadiferous magnetite occur. The presence of gabbro-anorthosite rocks in this belt provides a favorable geological setting for the formation and concentration of vanadium resources.
  • Finally, the Rangmatia-Betai belt, located in Kendujhar and Balasore districts, completes the distribution of vanadiferous magnetite deposits in the north Odisha region. The combination of gabbro-anorthosite rocks and the presence of vanadium-rich magnetite in this belt makes it a valuable resource area.

Overall, the occurrence of vanadiferous magnetite in association with the gabbro-anorthosite suite of rocks in these five belts in north Odisha highlights the region’s potential as a significant source of vanadium. The exploration, extraction, and processing of these deposits can contribute to the local economy and fulfill the growing demand for vanadium in various industries, including steel production, energy storage, and catalysis.

Platinum

The presence of platinum has been documented in the ultramafic complexes of Sukinda and Nuasahi areas, situated at the trijunction of Kendujhar, Jajpur, and Dhenkanal districts in Odisha. These areas have revealed highly promising deposits of platinum ores, particularly in the laterites of the Bhubana-Barapada region spanning Dhenkanal and Kendujhar districts.

Notably, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) has conducted assessments on the metal content of platinum ores found in Odisha, revealing an exceptional value of 220-250 grams per ton of ore. This high concentration of platinum is considered the highest recorded occurrence of platinum in its natural state worldwide.

The platinum ore deposits are found in a specific area covering approximately 450 square kilometers. It is important to note that this area represents only one-sixth of the total laterite rock area, which spans approximately 3,000 square kilometers and has been surveyed in Odisha. Among the specific locations where platinum ore deposits have been identified are Barapada, Damphidi, Madanpur, Khad, Kabahali, and Patharpada.

Platinum finds diverse applications across various industries due to its unique properties. One prominent use is in the production of auto catalysts, where platinum acts as a catalyst in catalytic converters to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles. Additionally, platinum is highly valued in the jewelry industry for its lustrous appearance and durability. It is also utilized in dentistry for its biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. Furthermore, platinum has important industrial applications, such as in chemical processing, electrical components, and fuel cells.

Base Metals

Odisha, while not abundantly endowed with basemetal ores, does possess deposits that are associated with Precambrian schists found in certain areas of north Odisha. Through detailed exploration conducted in recent years, several promising sectors have been identified, particularly for copper and lead ores.

  • Kesarpur (Mayurbhanj District): One of these sectors is located in Kesarpur. The exploration efforts in this area have indicated the presence of significant copper ore deposits.
  • Adash (Sambalpur District): Another promising sector for basemetal ores is Adash. Exploration activities in this area have revealed the presence of valuable lead ore deposits.
  • Sargipalli (Sundargarh District): The Sargipalli region has also been identified as a noteworthy sector for basemetal ores, specifically copper. Detailed exploration efforts have unveiled substantial copper ore reserves in this area.

Estimated Total Reserves:

  • Lead: Approximately 6.54 million tonnes.
  • Copper: Around 6.42 million tonnes.

Gold

Surveys conducted by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) have revealed the presence of gold deposits in three districts of Odisha, namely Deogarh, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj.

  • Keonjhar: Gold reserves have been identified in four different locations: Dimirimunda, Kushakala, Gotipur, and Gopur.
  • Mayurbhanj: Gold deposits have been discovered in four locations: Joshipur, Suriaguda, Ruansila, and Dhushura hill.
  • Deogarh: Gold deposits have been found in one location: Adas.

It is worth noting that the surveys conducted by the GSI in the 1970s and 1980s initially identified these gold deposits. However, the findings of those surveys had not been published until recently. A new survey of the area was conducted over the past two years by the GSI, which has brought the presence of gold reserves in these districts to light.

Lead & Zinc

Lead and zinc are valuable minerals with a wide range of industrial applications. They find extensive use in various industries such as the storage battery industry, paint industry, chemical industry, alloy production, cable manufacturing, ammunition production, galvanizing industry, dry cell manufacturing, and chemical synthesis.

In the state of Odisha, lead and zinc deposits have been reported in several districts, including Sundergarh, Mayurbhanj, Balangir, Kalahandi, and Deogarh. These districts hold significant potential for the extraction and utilization of these minerals, contributing to the economic development of the region.

District-Specific Contributions and Applications

  • Sundergarh District: Known for its lead and zinc deposits. These minerals are crucial for the storage battery industry, which utilizes lead-acid batteries widely. The paint industry also relies on lead compounds for the production of pigments and additives. Additionally, they have applications in the chemical industry for the production of various compounds and reagents.
  • Mayurbhanj District: Deposits here offer opportunities for mining operations and serve as essential resources for multiple industries. The alloys industry utilizes zinc as a component in the production of brass, while lead finds application in cable manufacturing due to its electrical conductivity properties.
  • Balangir District: Lead and zinc deposits in this region play a significant role in the galvanizing industry, where they are used to provide a protective coating to metals. Additionally, lead is utilized in the production of dry cell batteries, while zinc finds application in chemical synthesis and as a corrosion-resistant coating in various applications.
  • Kalahandi District: Known for its lead and zinc reserves, which contribute to the production of ammunition for defense purposes. These minerals are utilized in the manufacturing of bullets, shells, and other ammunition components.
  • Deogarh District: Deposits found here cater to various industrial requirements. The storage battery industry benefits from these minerals for the production of lead-acid batteries, while zinc is essential for the galvanizing industry, where it provides corrosion protection to steel and iron structures.

The presence of lead and zinc deposits in these districts of Odisha highlights the state’s potential as a significant contributor to the mineral resources of India. The extraction and utilization of these minerals can support local industries, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall economic growth of the region.

Non-Metals

Bauxite

Odisha is the leading state in India for bauxite, accounting for 59% of the total countrywide production. The deposits are classified into five categories based on the nature of the bedrock:

  1. Large cappings over khondalite rocks (Eastern Ghats Supergroup): Found in Koraput, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Balangir, and Sambalpur. These are extensive, high-thickness deposits occurring at elevations of 900–1400 meters with alumina content between 40% and 56%.
  2. Cappings over charnockite and dioritic gneisses: Found in Koraput and Kalahandi districts. Along with the first category, these constitute the famous “East Coast Bauxite deposits.”
  3. Minor cappings over Chattishgarh Shale: Small-scale deposits located in the Khariar highlands of Nuapada District.
  4. Minor cappings over mafic volcanics and shale (Koira Group): Found in Kendujhar and Sundargarh Districts.
  5. Capping over Simlipal volcanic rocks: Located in Mayurbhanj District, specifically in flat-topped hill ranges west of Nawana and east of Simlipalgarh.

Industrial Use: Bauxite is essential for the aluminum, refractory, chemical, and petroleum industries.

China Clay (Kaolin)

China clay is formed from the decomposition of granites and gneisses under laterite cappings. In Odisha, it exhibits both plastic and non-plastic characteristics.

  • Mayurbhanj District: Major deposits are found around Badampahar-Karanjia and Joshipur (specifically Kuruma, Chandhbani, Dumuria, and Jamkesar).
  • Sundargarh District: Identified in Kukuda.
  • Kalahandi District: Reported in Lokopali.
  • Koraput District: Notable clay beds in Sorispadar with a thickness of 8-10 meters.
  • Other Districts: Occurrences are also noted in Ganjam, Phulbani, Kendujhar, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, and Baleswar.

Applications: Used as a raw material in paper, rubber, textiles, porcelain, pottery, and sanitary ware.

Coal

Odisha possesses substantial coal reserves, accounting for 24% of India’s total coal resources (estimated at 61,999 million tonnes as of 2007). The major coal-bearing formations are Karharbari and Barakar.

1. Talcher Coal Field (Angul District)

  • Significance: Boasts reserves of 38.65 billion tonnes, making it the largest coal reserve in India.
  • Structure: Covers 500 square kilometers. It features east-west trending strike faults and a basinal structure preserved in the southern and eastern regions.
  • Quality: Generally lower grade, containing approximately 35% fixed carbon, 40% volatile matter, and 25% ash.
  • Distribution: In 2011, about 100,000 tonnes were dispatched daily to power stations across Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal.

2. Ib River Coal Field (Sambalpur and Sundargarh Districts)

  • Significance: Holds reserves of 22.3 billion tonnes, ranking as the third-largest coal reserve in India.
  • Structure: Showcases a westerly plunging synclinal flexure, resembling a half-elliptical basin. It is structurally less disturbed than other fields.
  • Horizons: Includes four coal horizons—Rampur, Lajkura, Parkhani, and Belpahar—in addition to the Ib seams.

Chromite

Odisha is the primary producer of chromite in India, accounting for approximately 98% of the total countrywide production. The chromite deposits are categorized based on their geological settings:

1. Sukinda Ultramafic Complex (Jajpur District)

This is the most significant chromite-producing area in India.

  • Geology: The deposits occur as several persistent bands within the Sukinda ultramafic field, which is part of the Precambrian Iron Ore Group.
  • Structure: The complex is a synclinally folded body. Chromite occurs in three distinct zones: the Northern, Central, and Southern zones.
  • Resources: This area contains the largest and highest-grade chromite resources in the country.

2. Nuasahi-Baula Complex (Kendujhar District)

  • Occurrence: Chromite is found in association with ultramafic rocks like dunite, peridotite, and pyroxenite.
  • Characteristics: These deposits are generally of high grade and are crucial for the ferro-chrome industry.

3. Other Occurrences

Chromite occurrences have also been reported in the following areas:

  • Dhenkanal District: In the areas of Katpal, Birasal, and Ghotringa.
  • Cuttack District: In the areas of Gurujanga and Bhakutipada.

Industrial Use: Chromite is essential for the production of ferro-alloys (ferro-chrome and charge-chrome), stainless steel, and refractories.

Cobalt

Cobalt is found in association with nickel and chromite deposits in Odisha.

  • Location: The primary occurrences are documented in the Sukinda valley of Jajpur district.
  • Source: It is predominantly associated with the nickeliferous laterites and the chromite overburden of the Sukinda area.
  • Significance: Although the concentration is relatively low, these deposits represent a potential future source of cobalt through advanced processing of nickel-laterite ores.

Copper

Copper deposits in Odisha are associated with ancient Precambrian rocks and are found in several districts:

  • Mayurbhanj District: Significant deposits have been identified in the Kesarpur area. This sector has shown promising potential for copper mining.
  • Sundargarh District: Copper mineralization is recorded in the Sargipalli region. This area has been historically significant for basemetal extraction.
  • Sambalpur District: Valuable copper and lead ore deposits have been identified in the Adash area.
  • Total Reserves: The total copper ore reserves in Odisha are estimated to be approximately 6.42 million tonnes.

Industrial Use: Copper is widely used in electrical industries (wiring and motors), construction, and the production of alloys like brass and bronze.

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