Question : MINERAL RESERVES DEPOSITS

(a) the estimated quantum and value of various mineral reserves/deposits available in the country at present along with total number of mines in the private and public sectors, State/UT-wise and mineral-wise;

(b) the surveys conducted by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and other concerned agencies in various States to explore/exploit various mineral deposits along with the outcome during each of the last three years and the current year;

(c) the expenditure incurred on exploration of mineral resources during the last three years and the current year, State/UT-wise;

(d) the details of the new mineral rich areas identified by GSI and other agencies, particularly in tribal areas; and

(e) the measures taken/to be taken for exploration of mineral deposits including participation of international/foreign companies in the sector?

THE MINISTER OF MINES, STEEL AND LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT (SHRI NARENDRA SINGH TOMAR)

(a) to (e): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred in reply to Lok Sabha Starred Question Number 89 for reply on 14.07.2014 regarding Mineral Reserves/Deposits asked by Shri Nimmala Kristappa

(a): As per information available, details of mineral reserves/resources estimated in the country is given in Annexure I. Details of the total number of mines in the private and public sectors, mineral and State/UT-wise is at Annexure II.

(b): State-wise details of the mineral surveys conducted by the GSI in various States along with the outcome during the last three years and current year are given at Annexure III.

(c): During the period 2011-12 till 2014-15, Geological Survey of India and Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited incurred expenditure of about Rs. 97.75 crore and about Rs. 27.3 crore upto 30th June, 2014 respectively on exploration of mineral resources.

(d) and (e): Details of the new mineral rich areas identified by GSI, particularly in mineral rich tribal areas along with the progress made in this regard is at Annexure IV.

GSI is the principal agency for mineral resource assessment of the country through systematic investigation of geologically potential areas. GSI is steadily equipping itself through upgradation of the in-house capabilities through, inter-alia, strengthening its capacity building and reorganizing its organizational structure to meet the new challenges. The induction and infusion of technological advancement of GSI in the mineral sector is based upon achieving the following objectives:

(i) Conceptual studies and identification of favorable geological milieu, mainly in respect of unknown and non-reported minerals.

(ii) Identification of concealed /hidden mineral bodies through modern and sophisticated exploration methods and techniques.

(iii) Reorganization of efforts by getting conceptually and instrumentally better equipped.