Introduction:

Minerals existed long before any forms of life, playing a key role in the origin and evolution of life; an interaction with biological systems that we are only now beginning to understand. Exploring the traditional strand of mineralogy, which emphasises the important mineral families, the well-established analytical methods (optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction). The State of Assam covers an area of 78,438 sq.kms. It is full of natural bounties and rich in every aspect of nature including mineral wealth.

Minerals:

The Directorate of Geology & Mining, Assam carried out extensive geological exploration works to identify the potential mineral deposits of Assam. Coal, cement grade limestone,china clay, iron ore, glass sand, sillimanite, granite etc. are the main economic minerals of Assam. Out of these, coal & limestone are already being mined in Assam successfully and a few cement plants are already in operation. Assam has bright scope of development of mining and mineral based industries.

SCOPE OF MINING OF MINERALS:

 Coal mining is primarily done by Government/ Public sector companies as there is restriction  in coal mining by private companies. However, private companies engaged in iron & steel manufacture, cement manufacture, coal based power generation are permitted to undertake captive coal mining for their own use.There is no restriction in mining of other minerals like limestone, china clay, granite, sillimanite, fuller’s earth, iron ore, glass sand, etc. by private sector companies.

POSSIBLE MINERALS BASED INDUSTRIES