(a) whether the Geological Survey of India has found any source of Bauxite deposit in Kerala;
(b) if so, the details thereof, location-wise;
(c) whether the Government has decided to transfer it to private firms/companies for excavation; and
(d) if so, the details thereof ?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES ( DR. DASARI NARAYANA RAO )
(a & b) : Yes, Sir. Geological Survey of India (GSI) has carried out exploration for Bauxite in Kerala and the important deposits found are located in Kannur, Kasargod, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram districts. 10.46 million tonnes of Bauxite with 40% - 50% Al2O3 has been established in Kannur and Kasaragod district and 2.64 million tonnes in Kollam and 0.93 million tonnes in Thiruvananthapuram districts with 40% - 50% Al2O3.
(c & d) : Mineral Concessions are granted by the State Governments under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and Rules made thereunder. As per the National Mineral Policy 1993, the exploration and exploitation of these minerals has been thrown open to private investment and therefore commercial exploitation of minerals take place as per economic viability of the mineral.