This move follows the recent approval of the National Critical Mineral Mission by the Union Cabinet.Reclassification is based on recommendations from an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by Dr. V. K. Saraswat.
- A mineral is a natural substance of organic or inorganic origin with definite chemical and physical properties.
Reason for reclassification
- Quartz, Felspar and Mica are found in pegmatite rocks, which are an important source of many critical minerals.
- Previously, when lease was granted as minor minerals, associated critical minerals were not reported or extracted.
- These minerals have vital roles in various new technologies, in energy transition, spacecraft industries, healthcare sector, etc.
- Baryte often occurs as concretions and vein fillings in limestone and dolostone.
- It is found in association with ores of Antimony, Cobalt, Copper, Lead, Manganese and Silver.
- It has various industrial applications which is used for oil and gas drilling, electronics, TV screens, rubber, glass, ceramics, paint, radiation shielding and medical applications.
- Once categorized as major minerals, there would be an increase in exploration and scientific mining of these minerals which are an important source of many critical minerals.
Major and Minor Minerals
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