Question

Which state is the largest producer of manganese ore in India?
A. Odisha
B. Bihar
C. Chhattisgarh
D. Madhya Pradesh

Answer 1

Hint: The state which is the largest producer of Manganese ore in India is situated in the central part of the country. The state has no international boundary and no coastline.

Complete answer: Manganese is a significant crude material for the smelting of iron ore and furthermore utilized for assembling ferroalloys. Manganese deposits are found in practically all geological formations, nonetheless, it is primarily connected with the Dharwar rock system.

Option A - Prior to 2018 Odisha was the leading producer of manganese ore in India. It now ranks third in terms of production right after Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra while it ranks first in terms of reserves. Two important mines of Odisha are the Gondite Mines and the Khondolite deposits.
Option B - Bihar is mostly known for its pyrites and mica reserves. It also produces iron ore, copper ore and bauxite.
Option C - Chhattisgarh is rich in mineral deposits and is the leading producer of tin concentrates. It also produces coal, bauxite, iron ore and dolomite. The tin mine in Chhattisgarh is located in Dantewada.
Option D - As per 2018 Indian Minerals Yearbook released by Indian Bureau of Mines, Madhya Pradesh is the largest producer of manganese ore in India. The Balaghat district of Madhya Pradesh produces the maximum amount of manganese iron ore which surpasses the production of Odisha.

Thus, the correct answer is option (D).

Note: Manganese is an indispensable metal, mostly used in industries to desulfurize and deoxidize steel. It is also used to produce a variety of important alloys. The chemical symbol of Manganese is Mn.