Which Indian state is the leading producer of iron ore in India, particularly known for its rich deposits of high-grade hematite?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Odisha.
Explanation:
☛ Odisha is the largest producer of iron ore in India, contributing over 50% of the country's total iron ore production.
☛ The state is particularly famous for having vast reserves of high-grade hematite ore.
☛ Major iron ore producing belts in Odisha include the Mayurbhanj, Kendujhar (Keonjhar), and Sundargarh districts.
☛ Notable mines in this region include Badampahar, Gorumahisani, and Kiriburu.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Chhattisgarh: The second-largest producer of iron ore, famous for the Bailadila mines in the Dantewada district, which supply high-grade iron ore exported to Japan and South Korea via Visakhapatnam port.
☛ Karnataka: Rich in magnetite deposits; major reserves are found in the Kudremukh and Ballari-Chitradurga-Chikkamagaluru-Tumakuru belt.
☛ Jharkhand: Home to some of the oldest iron ore mines in India, mainly in the Noamundi and Gua areas of the West Singhbhum district.
☛ Types of Iron Ore: Magnetite is the finest iron ore with up to 70% iron content and excellent magnetic qualities, while hematite is the most important industrial iron ore with 60% to 70% iron content.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which port handles the export of iron ore from Chhattisgarh's Bailadila mines? → Visakhapatnam Port
☛ Which type of iron ore has the highest iron content? → Magnetite
☛ In which state is the famous Kudremukh iron ore mine located? → Karnataka
☛ Which is the oldest iron ore mining area in India? → Noamundi (Jharkhand)
☛ What is the major chemical formula of hematite iron ore? → Fe₂O₃