With reference to the mineral resource distribution in peninsular India, which of the following rock systems contains nearly ninety percent of India's coal reserves, particularly bituminous coal used for thermal power generation?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Gondwana rock system, laid down in ancient river basins and rift valleys such as the Damodar, Mahanadi, and Godavari valleys, holds the vast majority of India's coal reserves. The Dharwar system is rich in metallic minerals like iron ore, manganese, and gold. The Vindhyan system consists of sedimentary rocks known for building stones and limestone rather than coal. Tertiary coal deposits occur primarily in northeastern states and lignite occurs in southern deposits like Neyveli in Tamil Nadu.