With reference to Copper production in India, consider the following statements:
1. India has turned into a net importer of refined copper in recent times.
2. Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand are the only states involved in the production of copper in the country.
3. During the copper smelting process, the sulfur dioxide and particulate matter are predominantly released into the atmosphere.
Which of the statements given above is/are CORRECT?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
Answer: Only 1 and 3.
Explanation:
The status of copper production in India has been quite dynamic. Statement 1 is correct because, following the closure of the Sterlite Copper Plant in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin), Tamil Nadu, in 2018, India transitioned from being a net exporter of copper to a net importer. Statement 2 is incorrect; although Madhya Pradesh (Malanjkhand), Rajasthan (Khetri), and Jharkhand (Singhbhum) are major producers, other states such as Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat (in terms of processing/smelting) are also involved in copper production. The word 'only' renders this statement incorrect. Statement 3 is correct because the process of copper smelting is highly polluting. It involves the emission of large quantities of gases such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter (PM), which contribute to acid rain and respiratory ailments. India's current consumption relies primarily on the electrical, infrastructure, and automobile sectors, leading to an increased dependence on imports.
Additional Points:
Major Mines: Malanjkhand in Madhya Pradesh constitutes India's largest copper reserve/producing region, while Khetri in Rajasthan holds historical and strategic significance.
Statistics: According to the Ministry of Mines (2024 Report), India possesses copper reserves of approximately 1.5 billion tonnes; however, domestic production is able to meet only 10–15% of the demand.
Pollution: Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) generated during the smelting process is also a by-product, the management of which is mandatory for industrial safety.
Potential Exam Questions:
Question: Which state in India is the largest producer of copper ore?
Answer: Madhya Pradesh (Malanjkhand Mine).
Question: Which significant acid is produced as a by-product during the smelting of copper? Answer: Sulfuric acid (H2SO4).