The Kudremukh mines in Karnataka are primarily known for the extraction of which important mineral resource?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3 i.e. Iron Ore.
The Kudremukh mines, located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, are world-renowned for their vast deposits of magnetite iron ore. The name 'Kudremukh' literally means "horse-face" in Kannada, referring to the unique shape of a specific mountain peak in the range. Historically, these mines were developed for the export of iron ore concentrates in slurry form through the Mangalore port.
However, due to environmental concerns and its location within a sensitive National Park, commercial mining operations were halted by the Supreme Court to preserve biodiversity.
Other Options:
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Bauxite: Primarily found in Odisha and Chhattisgarh; used for aluminum production.
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Limestone: Extracted extensively in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh; essential for the cement industry.
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Copper: Majorly mined in Malanjkhand (MP) and Khetri (Rajasthan); used for electrical wiring.