Question

Which region is the largest producer of coal in India?

Answer 1

Hint:
 The region is located in eastern India. It is enclosed by Bihar to the northern side, Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh to the western side, Odisha to the southern part and West Bengal to the eastern part. The name of the region means 'land of bush or forest'.

Complete solution:
The region which is the largest producer of coal in India in Jharkhand. It has immense mineral resources ranging from iron ore, mica, bauxite and several other minerals. Coal in Jharkhand is mainly mined from the Jharia field, located in Jharia. Jharia coalfield is one of the largest coal reserves in India.

Additional Information: Coal is a hard and sedimentary rock formed from peat, by the pressure of rocks laid down later on top. It can be roasted to produce coke and can be used in smelting to reduce metals from their ores. It mostly contains the carbon but it also contains hydrogen, sulphur, oxygen and nitrogen. It can be burnt for energy and heat and provides about a quarter of the world’s heating needs.

Note:
The mining and burning of coal lead to various environmental problems. Exposure to coal dust can lead to the problem of pneumoconiosis, affecting the lungs of the miners. When burnt without scrubbers, it can lead to acid rain and smog. Coal mining can damage large areas of natural habitats, affecting the flora and fauna of that region. It leads to both air pollution and water pollution. Other coal mines in India are Raniganj, Chinakuri and Korba.