UPSC Prelims PYQ 2006 — Minerals in Kerala beach sands

Which of the following substances are found in the beach sands of many parts of Kerala?

1. Ilmenite
2. Zircon
3. Sillimanite
4. Tungsten

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1, 2, 3 and 4
2. 1, 2 and 3
3. 3 and 4 only
4. 1 and 2 only

Explanation

Option (b) is correct

• Kerala State is endowed with a number of occurrences/deposits of minerals such as Heavy Mineral Sands (Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Sillimanite) ,Gold, Iron ore, Bauxite, Graphite, China Clay, Fire Clay, Tile and Brick Clay, Silica Sand, Lignite, Limestone, Limeshell, Dimension Stone (Granite), Gemstones, Magnesite, Steatite etc.Tungsten does not occur in Kerala’s beach sands. India heavily relies on imports to meet its entire domestic requirement of tungsten ore and concentrates, as there is currently no active commercial tungsten mining in the country. Primary domestic reserves are located in Rajasthan (Degana), Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 3