(a) whether the Mica reserves in the country particularly in Maharashtra are depleting;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(c) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to set up mica based industries?
(a) whether the Mica reserves in the country particularly in Maharashtra are depleting;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(c) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to set up mica based industries?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES (DR. DASARI NARAYANA RAO)
(a): As per the National Mineral Inventory prepared by Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) a subordinate Office of the Ministry of Mines, as on 1.4.2000 the in situ reserves of mica in the country are placed at 59064 tonnes. Mica reserves as on 1.4.95 were estimated to be 64202 tonnes. As per available information with IBM, no economically viable mica deposits have been located in Maharashtra.
(b) & (c): As per the National Mineral Policy 1993, the exploration/exploitation of the minerals including mica has been thrown open to private entrepreneurs. However exploration of mica and setting up of mica based Industries will depend on availability of mineral and economic viability of such project.