Iron Ore

India is exceptionally well-endowed with iron ore. The country holds the largest reserves of iron ore in Asia. This abundance, combined with the superior quality of the ore, creates great demand for Indian iron ore in the international market.

Types of Iron Ore

The two main types of iron ore found in India are haematite and magnetite. Both are high-grade ores, which is why Indian iron ore is prized globally.

Geographical Advantage

A major advantage for the iron and steel industry is that iron ore mines occur in close proximity to coal fields in the north-eastern plateau region of the country. This reduces the cost of transporting raw materials.

Distribution of Reserves

About 95 per cent of India's total iron ore reserves are located in just eight states: Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Goa, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

Major Iron Ore Producing Regions

Odisha

Iron ore occurs in a series of hill ranges across the districts of Sundergarh, Mayurbhanj, and Jhar. The important mines here are:

• Gurumahisani
• Sulaipet
• Badampahar (in Mayurbhanj)
• Kiruburu (in Kendujhar)
• Bonai (in Sundergarh)

Jharkhand

This state has some of the oldest iron ore mines in the country, and most of India's iron and steel plants are located around them. The most important mines — Noamundi and Gua — are located in the Poorbi and Pashchimi Singhbhum districts.

Chhattisgarh

The iron ore belt from Jharkhand extends into Chhattisgarh, covering the districts of Durg, Dantewara, and Bailadila. The important mines in this state are Dalli and Rajhara, both located in the Durg district.

Karnataka

Iron ore deposits are found in several areas:

• The Sandur-Hospet area of Ballari district
• Baba Budan hills and Kudremukh in Chikkamagaluru district …