Mineral Resources of the State | Uttarakhand State PSC (UKPSC): Preparation - UKPSC (Uttarakhand) PDF Download

 Page 1


Mineral Resources of the State
Due to its hilly terrain and complex geology it is very difficult to explore and
locate mineral wealth of the state. It is still more difficult to harness such
mineral wealth. A brief study of mineral resources found in the state has been
made in this chapter. Important minerals occurring in the state are high grade
limestone in Almora, Dehradun, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Pauri Garhwal, and
Tehri Garhwal. Magnesite and talc/steatite/soapstone in Almora, Bageshwar,
Chamoli and Pithoragarh, and tungusten occur in Almora. Chamoli district is
particularly important for mineral resources. Northern part of the district is
known for medium to high grade metamorphic rocks, which also contain
bands of volcanic rocks.
Iron- Almora, Nainital, Pauri.
Asbestos- Pauri, Almora.
Barytes- Koti in Dehradun district
Base Metals- Almora- a. Shisha khani (Lead Prospect) b. Channapani
(Copper Prospect) c. Balaldeo (Lead and Copper prospect); Chamoli- 1-
Barmatiya 2-Dhanpur, 3- Malari, 4-Mohan Khal, 5-Pokhri,6-Dobri, 7-
Lameri, 8-Langasu,9-Ratura; Dehradun- 1-Kwanu (Pb, Zn-Cu belt), 2-
Chamari deposit, 3-Amtiargad, 4-Shallukhan Atoll Zone, 5-Atoll area zone,
6- Shahastradhara prospect; Nainital- 1- Amritpur, 2-Galpakot, 3-Khansyun;
Pauri Garhwal- 1-Bergana, 2- Agrorah Kunet; Tehri Garhwal- 1- Asenu, 2-
Bagori, 3-Dharkot; Pithoragarh- 1-Askot, 2-Baphilla
Copper- It occurs in minor amounts. In Pithoragarh it occurs near
Chandak, east of Kanalichhina. Minor veins of pyrite chalcopyrite occur
within the Gangolihat dolomite. In devalthal area, the magnesite and dolomite
show dissemination of chalcopyrites. Traces of ancient mining and smelting
can be seen near Raiagar. Other important deposits are found in Almora and
Dehradun.
Lead-Zinc, Silver- Mainly found in the districts of Dehradun, Pithoragarh.
It occurs with copper sulphide deposits such as Sisakhani, Chhanapani,
Bhaladeo, Gaul, south of Raiagar, Najibai (south of Berinag), Chandak,
Devalgarh, Tachhira, Bhainskhet, Bheridhauri. The Sisakhani occurance is
the only of some economic value. Lead and zinc mineralization is also
Page 2


Mineral Resources of the State
Due to its hilly terrain and complex geology it is very difficult to explore and
locate mineral wealth of the state. It is still more difficult to harness such
mineral wealth. A brief study of mineral resources found in the state has been
made in this chapter. Important minerals occurring in the state are high grade
limestone in Almora, Dehradun, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Pauri Garhwal, and
Tehri Garhwal. Magnesite and talc/steatite/soapstone in Almora, Bageshwar,
Chamoli and Pithoragarh, and tungusten occur in Almora. Chamoli district is
particularly important for mineral resources. Northern part of the district is
known for medium to high grade metamorphic rocks, which also contain
bands of volcanic rocks.
Iron- Almora, Nainital, Pauri.
Asbestos- Pauri, Almora.
Barytes- Koti in Dehradun district
Base Metals- Almora- a. Shisha khani (Lead Prospect) b. Channapani
(Copper Prospect) c. Balaldeo (Lead and Copper prospect); Chamoli- 1-
Barmatiya 2-Dhanpur, 3- Malari, 4-Mohan Khal, 5-Pokhri,6-Dobri, 7-
Lameri, 8-Langasu,9-Ratura; Dehradun- 1-Kwanu (Pb, Zn-Cu belt), 2-
Chamari deposit, 3-Amtiargad, 4-Shallukhan Atoll Zone, 5-Atoll area zone,
6- Shahastradhara prospect; Nainital- 1- Amritpur, 2-Galpakot, 3-Khansyun;
Pauri Garhwal- 1-Bergana, 2- Agrorah Kunet; Tehri Garhwal- 1- Asenu, 2-
Bagori, 3-Dharkot; Pithoragarh- 1-Askot, 2-Baphilla
Copper- It occurs in minor amounts. In Pithoragarh it occurs near
Chandak, east of Kanalichhina. Minor veins of pyrite chalcopyrite occur
within the Gangolihat dolomite. In devalthal area, the magnesite and dolomite
show dissemination of chalcopyrites. Traces of ancient mining and smelting
can be seen near Raiagar. Other important deposits are found in Almora and
Dehradun.
Lead-Zinc, Silver- Mainly found in the districts of Dehradun, Pithoragarh.
It occurs with copper sulphide deposits such as Sisakhani, Chhanapani,
Bhaladeo, Gaul, south of Raiagar, Najibai (south of Berinag), Chandak,
Devalgarh, Tachhira, Bhainskhet, Bheridhauri. The Sisakhani occurance is
the only of some economic value. Lead and zinc mineralization is also
associated with Krol limestone and dolomite near Sahashtradhara in
Dehradun.
Gypsum- The total reserves of gypsum associated with Krol sediments
have been estimated to be 1.1 million tones. Nainital- Between Dhapila and
Sonarmera, Hanumangarhi, Joginath; Tehri Garhwal- 1-Garur Chatti area, 2-
Gugthani area, 3-Mahipur area, 4-Rangargaon Khemsar and Narander Nagar
5- Lakshman Jhula; Dehradun- Jharipani-Sahastradhara and Kalighat area of
Mussoorie.
Limestone/Dolomite- Dehradun- 1-Barkot-Nutiya Deposit, 2-Lambidhar-
Hatipaon Deposit, 3-Song Valley Deposit, 4-Deoban-Bajmara area;
Pithoragarh-1- Dharchula Deposit, 2-Gangolihat Deposit, 3-Rorgaon Deposit;
Tehri Garhwal- Nagni.
In Pithoragarh dolomite is found in three belts- Jhulaghat-Gangolihat-
Jhirauli belt, the Penthasera-rain-Kanda belt and the Dharchula-Kapkot belt
extending westward into the Pindar valley. Large deposits of
dolomite/limestone occur in Krol belt of Nainital hills and Dehradun-
Mussoorie syncline. The main deposits are found in Sisoli, Bhatta, Hathipao,
Jharipani. These deposits have high calcium oxide (50-57%) with low
magnesium oxide, iron oxide, silica, and alumina. The good quality limestone
deposits are exposed around Sahastradhara. Limestone deposits exposed
around Kalsi and Dagura, Tila Gwar and Bhadsi near Lansdowne are also of
good quality. The basal part of Gangolihat dolomite consists of limestone at
number of places. Overlying the Gangolihat dolomite, the Sor slate also
consists of cement grade limestone.
In Pithoragarh three distict limestone belts are recognizable. First extends
from Baste to Naulara (Ramganga valley) in east (20km long, 230m thick); a
thin belt of cement grade limestone from the base of gangolihat dolomite
west of Berinag in Postala-Kulur gad area; and a 13km long 50-200 m thick
horizon south of Gangolihat extending through Nargolgad, Bagaur, Chunala
and Suitola. Cement grade limestone is also found near Jirauli.
Marble- Dehradun- 1-Lambidhar, 2-Charpatti, 3-Kiar Kuli
Pyrites and Sulphur- The Gangolihat dolomites, Sor Slate and Infra-Krol
contain deposits of pyrite and sulphur. Disseminatiom of pyrite are seen in
the Tenjam zone between Kali and Alaknanda valley, along the ori between
Madkot and Sirtola, Soth east of Munsyari in the Tanta and Dhamigao area,
in the Ramganga-Jakhala near Tejam, the Saryu-Lahur valley north of
Page 3


Mineral Resources of the State
Due to its hilly terrain and complex geology it is very difficult to explore and
locate mineral wealth of the state. It is still more difficult to harness such
mineral wealth. A brief study of mineral resources found in the state has been
made in this chapter. Important minerals occurring in the state are high grade
limestone in Almora, Dehradun, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Pauri Garhwal, and
Tehri Garhwal. Magnesite and talc/steatite/soapstone in Almora, Bageshwar,
Chamoli and Pithoragarh, and tungusten occur in Almora. Chamoli district is
particularly important for mineral resources. Northern part of the district is
known for medium to high grade metamorphic rocks, which also contain
bands of volcanic rocks.
Iron- Almora, Nainital, Pauri.
Asbestos- Pauri, Almora.
Barytes- Koti in Dehradun district
Base Metals- Almora- a. Shisha khani (Lead Prospect) b. Channapani
(Copper Prospect) c. Balaldeo (Lead and Copper prospect); Chamoli- 1-
Barmatiya 2-Dhanpur, 3- Malari, 4-Mohan Khal, 5-Pokhri,6-Dobri, 7-
Lameri, 8-Langasu,9-Ratura; Dehradun- 1-Kwanu (Pb, Zn-Cu belt), 2-
Chamari deposit, 3-Amtiargad, 4-Shallukhan Atoll Zone, 5-Atoll area zone,
6- Shahastradhara prospect; Nainital- 1- Amritpur, 2-Galpakot, 3-Khansyun;
Pauri Garhwal- 1-Bergana, 2- Agrorah Kunet; Tehri Garhwal- 1- Asenu, 2-
Bagori, 3-Dharkot; Pithoragarh- 1-Askot, 2-Baphilla
Copper- It occurs in minor amounts. In Pithoragarh it occurs near
Chandak, east of Kanalichhina. Minor veins of pyrite chalcopyrite occur
within the Gangolihat dolomite. In devalthal area, the magnesite and dolomite
show dissemination of chalcopyrites. Traces of ancient mining and smelting
can be seen near Raiagar. Other important deposits are found in Almora and
Dehradun.
Lead-Zinc, Silver- Mainly found in the districts of Dehradun, Pithoragarh.
It occurs with copper sulphide deposits such as Sisakhani, Chhanapani,
Bhaladeo, Gaul, south of Raiagar, Najibai (south of Berinag), Chandak,
Devalgarh, Tachhira, Bhainskhet, Bheridhauri. The Sisakhani occurance is
the only of some economic value. Lead and zinc mineralization is also
associated with Krol limestone and dolomite near Sahashtradhara in
Dehradun.
Gypsum- The total reserves of gypsum associated with Krol sediments
have been estimated to be 1.1 million tones. Nainital- Between Dhapila and
Sonarmera, Hanumangarhi, Joginath; Tehri Garhwal- 1-Garur Chatti area, 2-
Gugthani area, 3-Mahipur area, 4-Rangargaon Khemsar and Narander Nagar
5- Lakshman Jhula; Dehradun- Jharipani-Sahastradhara and Kalighat area of
Mussoorie.
Limestone/Dolomite- Dehradun- 1-Barkot-Nutiya Deposit, 2-Lambidhar-
Hatipaon Deposit, 3-Song Valley Deposit, 4-Deoban-Bajmara area;
Pithoragarh-1- Dharchula Deposit, 2-Gangolihat Deposit, 3-Rorgaon Deposit;
Tehri Garhwal- Nagni.
In Pithoragarh dolomite is found in three belts- Jhulaghat-Gangolihat-
Jhirauli belt, the Penthasera-rain-Kanda belt and the Dharchula-Kapkot belt
extending westward into the Pindar valley. Large deposits of
dolomite/limestone occur in Krol belt of Nainital hills and Dehradun-
Mussoorie syncline. The main deposits are found in Sisoli, Bhatta, Hathipao,
Jharipani. These deposits have high calcium oxide (50-57%) with low
magnesium oxide, iron oxide, silica, and alumina. The good quality limestone
deposits are exposed around Sahastradhara. Limestone deposits exposed
around Kalsi and Dagura, Tila Gwar and Bhadsi near Lansdowne are also of
good quality. The basal part of Gangolihat dolomite consists of limestone at
number of places. Overlying the Gangolihat dolomite, the Sor slate also
consists of cement grade limestone.
In Pithoragarh three distict limestone belts are recognizable. First extends
from Baste to Naulara (Ramganga valley) in east (20km long, 230m thick); a
thin belt of cement grade limestone from the base of gangolihat dolomite
west of Berinag in Postala-Kulur gad area; and a 13km long 50-200 m thick
horizon south of Gangolihat extending through Nargolgad, Bagaur, Chunala
and Suitola. Cement grade limestone is also found near Jirauli.
Marble- Dehradun- 1-Lambidhar, 2-Charpatti, 3-Kiar Kuli
Pyrites and Sulphur- The Gangolihat dolomites, Sor Slate and Infra-Krol
contain deposits of pyrite and sulphur. Disseminatiom of pyrite are seen in
the Tenjam zone between Kali and Alaknanda valley, along the ori between
Madkot and Sirtola, Soth east of Munsyari in the Tanta and Dhamigao area,
in the Ramganga-Jakhala near Tejam, the Saryu-Lahur valley north of
Bageshwar, the Pindar valley west of Bageshwar, and Pindar valley west of
Kibara.
Phosphorite- The Mussoorie and Nitalidhar syncline has significant
mineral around Maldevta, Durmala, Paritiba, Chamasari, and Jakholi. The
phosphorite occurs with the black shale chest in lower parts of Krol
formation. At Maldevta the thickness is about 7m extending over 1300m.
Dehradun and Tehri Garhwal- 1- Maldevta, 2- Mabrana, 3-Dhurmala, 3-
Kimoi, 4-Jaikhal, 5- Bhusti; Nainital- Baldiyakhan to Darim Khet
Silica Sand- Uttarkashi- 1-Sathang-Deodhar, 2- Jarmola-Dharamandhar, 3-
Malap ka Dhanda-Chantra Dhar
Soapstone - Bageshwar- 1- Birkhal, 2-Maulgar 3-Surog; Chamoli- 1-
Pindar-Kaliganga Valley, 2-Huyna, 3-Dwing, 4-Gulab Koti, 5-Ganasi, 6-
Molta, 7-Irani, 8-Bhuni; Pithoragarh- 1-Bhardarigaon, 2-Bora Ag as, 3-
Ganai, 4-Kimkhet, 5-Phadyali Rain, 6-Agar Agar, 7-Barabesi, 8-Bano
occurrence, 9-Dugal Agar, 10-Kanoli ekhiva, 11-Melapani, 12-Mushgal
Gold- 1-Ralam, 2-Askot, 3-Chalthi, 4-Galakot
Placer Gold- Pithoragarh - 1-Bagwari, 2-Kainur, 3-Bungidhar
Graphite – The occurance of graphite schist and graphite nodules are
known from Kalimat, Sirar, Petsal, and Barini devi north west of Almora.
The graphite schist belt extending over 15 km is found associated with
banded quartzite, garnetiferous mica and scist and gneisses of Almora group.
Almora- 1-Kalimate, 2-Persai, 3-Sirav; Pauri Garhwal- 1-Thailisain, 2-
Kaprauli, 3-Garurchatti; Nainital- Betalghat-Jaurasi
Magnesite - Magnesite is used in steel and cement industries, synthetics,
plastic, paints, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, paper, tanning and textiles.
Uttarakhand is the second largest producer of Magnesite in the country. It
accounts for 53% of total mineral production in the state. As much as 66% of
the recoverable reserves of magnesite are found in Uttarakhand, followed by
Tamil Nadu(18%) and Rajasthan (13%). The most important feature of
Gangolihat dolomite is the lentiform deposits of coarsely crystalline
magnesite in its uppermost horizon. The horizon of magnesite deposit it
extends from Kali in the east to Alaknanda in the west. The magnesium oxide
content is 35-45%. The magnesite horizon occurs in three longitudinal belts.
1- From north of Pithoragarh it extends along Bisabajed, Harigao, Baste,
Deopala, Do—Tusrani, Tihait, Ganni, Tachhini, Phadiari, Bauri, Asom, Salia,
and Dhujraphat (Gangoli region). 2- Panthsera, Gandoli, Dungi, Devalthal,
Page 4


Mineral Resources of the State
Due to its hilly terrain and complex geology it is very difficult to explore and
locate mineral wealth of the state. It is still more difficult to harness such
mineral wealth. A brief study of mineral resources found in the state has been
made in this chapter. Important minerals occurring in the state are high grade
limestone in Almora, Dehradun, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Pauri Garhwal, and
Tehri Garhwal. Magnesite and talc/steatite/soapstone in Almora, Bageshwar,
Chamoli and Pithoragarh, and tungusten occur in Almora. Chamoli district is
particularly important for mineral resources. Northern part of the district is
known for medium to high grade metamorphic rocks, which also contain
bands of volcanic rocks.
Iron- Almora, Nainital, Pauri.
Asbestos- Pauri, Almora.
Barytes- Koti in Dehradun district
Base Metals- Almora- a. Shisha khani (Lead Prospect) b. Channapani
(Copper Prospect) c. Balaldeo (Lead and Copper prospect); Chamoli- 1-
Barmatiya 2-Dhanpur, 3- Malari, 4-Mohan Khal, 5-Pokhri,6-Dobri, 7-
Lameri, 8-Langasu,9-Ratura; Dehradun- 1-Kwanu (Pb, Zn-Cu belt), 2-
Chamari deposit, 3-Amtiargad, 4-Shallukhan Atoll Zone, 5-Atoll area zone,
6- Shahastradhara prospect; Nainital- 1- Amritpur, 2-Galpakot, 3-Khansyun;
Pauri Garhwal- 1-Bergana, 2- Agrorah Kunet; Tehri Garhwal- 1- Asenu, 2-
Bagori, 3-Dharkot; Pithoragarh- 1-Askot, 2-Baphilla
Copper- It occurs in minor amounts. In Pithoragarh it occurs near
Chandak, east of Kanalichhina. Minor veins of pyrite chalcopyrite occur
within the Gangolihat dolomite. In devalthal area, the magnesite and dolomite
show dissemination of chalcopyrites. Traces of ancient mining and smelting
can be seen near Raiagar. Other important deposits are found in Almora and
Dehradun.
Lead-Zinc, Silver- Mainly found in the districts of Dehradun, Pithoragarh.
It occurs with copper sulphide deposits such as Sisakhani, Chhanapani,
Bhaladeo, Gaul, south of Raiagar, Najibai (south of Berinag), Chandak,
Devalgarh, Tachhira, Bhainskhet, Bheridhauri. The Sisakhani occurance is
the only of some economic value. Lead and zinc mineralization is also
associated with Krol limestone and dolomite near Sahashtradhara in
Dehradun.
Gypsum- The total reserves of gypsum associated with Krol sediments
have been estimated to be 1.1 million tones. Nainital- Between Dhapila and
Sonarmera, Hanumangarhi, Joginath; Tehri Garhwal- 1-Garur Chatti area, 2-
Gugthani area, 3-Mahipur area, 4-Rangargaon Khemsar and Narander Nagar
5- Lakshman Jhula; Dehradun- Jharipani-Sahastradhara and Kalighat area of
Mussoorie.
Limestone/Dolomite- Dehradun- 1-Barkot-Nutiya Deposit, 2-Lambidhar-
Hatipaon Deposit, 3-Song Valley Deposit, 4-Deoban-Bajmara area;
Pithoragarh-1- Dharchula Deposit, 2-Gangolihat Deposit, 3-Rorgaon Deposit;
Tehri Garhwal- Nagni.
In Pithoragarh dolomite is found in three belts- Jhulaghat-Gangolihat-
Jhirauli belt, the Penthasera-rain-Kanda belt and the Dharchula-Kapkot belt
extending westward into the Pindar valley. Large deposits of
dolomite/limestone occur in Krol belt of Nainital hills and Dehradun-
Mussoorie syncline. The main deposits are found in Sisoli, Bhatta, Hathipao,
Jharipani. These deposits have high calcium oxide (50-57%) with low
magnesium oxide, iron oxide, silica, and alumina. The good quality limestone
deposits are exposed around Sahastradhara. Limestone deposits exposed
around Kalsi and Dagura, Tila Gwar and Bhadsi near Lansdowne are also of
good quality. The basal part of Gangolihat dolomite consists of limestone at
number of places. Overlying the Gangolihat dolomite, the Sor slate also
consists of cement grade limestone.
In Pithoragarh three distict limestone belts are recognizable. First extends
from Baste to Naulara (Ramganga valley) in east (20km long, 230m thick); a
thin belt of cement grade limestone from the base of gangolihat dolomite
west of Berinag in Postala-Kulur gad area; and a 13km long 50-200 m thick
horizon south of Gangolihat extending through Nargolgad, Bagaur, Chunala
and Suitola. Cement grade limestone is also found near Jirauli.
Marble- Dehradun- 1-Lambidhar, 2-Charpatti, 3-Kiar Kuli
Pyrites and Sulphur- The Gangolihat dolomites, Sor Slate and Infra-Krol
contain deposits of pyrite and sulphur. Disseminatiom of pyrite are seen in
the Tenjam zone between Kali and Alaknanda valley, along the ori between
Madkot and Sirtola, Soth east of Munsyari in the Tanta and Dhamigao area,
in the Ramganga-Jakhala near Tejam, the Saryu-Lahur valley north of
Bageshwar, the Pindar valley west of Bageshwar, and Pindar valley west of
Kibara.
Phosphorite- The Mussoorie and Nitalidhar syncline has significant
mineral around Maldevta, Durmala, Paritiba, Chamasari, and Jakholi. The
phosphorite occurs with the black shale chest in lower parts of Krol
formation. At Maldevta the thickness is about 7m extending over 1300m.
Dehradun and Tehri Garhwal- 1- Maldevta, 2- Mabrana, 3-Dhurmala, 3-
Kimoi, 4-Jaikhal, 5- Bhusti; Nainital- Baldiyakhan to Darim Khet
Silica Sand- Uttarkashi- 1-Sathang-Deodhar, 2- Jarmola-Dharamandhar, 3-
Malap ka Dhanda-Chantra Dhar
Soapstone - Bageshwar- 1- Birkhal, 2-Maulgar 3-Surog; Chamoli- 1-
Pindar-Kaliganga Valley, 2-Huyna, 3-Dwing, 4-Gulab Koti, 5-Ganasi, 6-
Molta, 7-Irani, 8-Bhuni; Pithoragarh- 1-Bhardarigaon, 2-Bora Ag as, 3-
Ganai, 4-Kimkhet, 5-Phadyali Rain, 6-Agar Agar, 7-Barabesi, 8-Bano
occurrence, 9-Dugal Agar, 10-Kanoli ekhiva, 11-Melapani, 12-Mushgal
Gold- 1-Ralam, 2-Askot, 3-Chalthi, 4-Galakot
Placer Gold- Pithoragarh - 1-Bagwari, 2-Kainur, 3-Bungidhar
Graphite – The occurance of graphite schist and graphite nodules are
known from Kalimat, Sirar, Petsal, and Barini devi north west of Almora.
The graphite schist belt extending over 15 km is found associated with
banded quartzite, garnetiferous mica and scist and gneisses of Almora group.
Almora- 1-Kalimate, 2-Persai, 3-Sirav; Pauri Garhwal- 1-Thailisain, 2-
Kaprauli, 3-Garurchatti; Nainital- Betalghat-Jaurasi
Magnesite - Magnesite is used in steel and cement industries, synthetics,
plastic, paints, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, paper, tanning and textiles.
Uttarakhand is the second largest producer of Magnesite in the country. It
accounts for 53% of total mineral production in the state. As much as 66% of
the recoverable reserves of magnesite are found in Uttarakhand, followed by
Tamil Nadu(18%) and Rajasthan (13%). The most important feature of
Gangolihat dolomite is the lentiform deposits of coarsely crystalline
magnesite in its uppermost horizon. The horizon of magnesite deposit it
extends from Kali in the east to Alaknanda in the west. The magnesium oxide
content is 35-45%. The magnesite horizon occurs in three longitudinal belts.
1- From north of Pithoragarh it extends along Bisabajed, Harigao, Baste,
Deopala, Do—Tusrani, Tihait, Ganni, Tachhini, Phadiari, Bauri, Asom, Salia,
and Dhujraphat (Gangoli region). 2- Panthsera, Gandoli, Dungi, Devalthal,
Doragar, Raiagar, and Kanda extending westward along Bhulgao,
Dewaldhar, towards Girichhina and Someshwar. 3- extends from Panya in
the east toTuper, Jakh, and Jakheri in the west. The Chandak and Jhirauli
deposits are being mined by the Magnesite and Mineral Limited and the
Almora Magnesite Limited respectively. The Devalthal deposits are being
evaluated by the Bharat refrectory limited a GoI undertaking. Almora- 1-
Agar Girechhina Deposit, 2-Dewaldhar Deposit, 3-Kanda Massauli Deposit,
4-Areapani Prospect, 5-Bhurgaon Prospect, 6-Channi Prospect, 7-Lahone
valley, 8-Bauri occurrences, 8- Jhirauli, 9- Girchhina, 10- Pungar Valley.;
Pithoragarh- Chandak, Devalthal, Gol, Kholi-Amthal.; Chamoli- Palla-
Gulabkhoti, Jakhola, Kimana, Healang, and Mamolta.
Talc – Talc is used in industries like soap, print, insecticides, pesticides,
and lubricants. The talk is found along with magnesite. Prliminary survey
indicates occurance high grade talc in Almora and Pithoragarh. The deposits
of Jakhera, Maulagar, Biksha, and Surag(Lahone valley), Agar-Girichhina
(someshwar), Kanda, Khuna, Dayali, and Masauli (Pungar valley), Malahula
Thal, Devalthal-Bhungachhina, Boragar-Raiagar (South of Berinag), are
economically exploitable. Small deposits occur at Karhidhar, north of
Dwarahat, and near Majhaula. The Kanalichhina deposits (Pithoragarh)
contain 0.12 million tones of reserve.
Steatite- Uttarakhand is the second largest producer of steatite in the
country.
Sulphur - Chamoli- Nandprayag; Rudraprayag- Mandakini valley;
Dehradun- 1-Sahastradhara, 2- Manjhera, 3-Sera
Slate and Pavingstone- In Uttarakhand slate has been used as roofing
material. The oldest sedimentary rocks os eastern Kumaun Himalaya consist
of brown and grey slate. The Sor slate formation contains valuable roofing
and pavingstone material. In central Kumaun, the Almora crystalline at
Gumalikhet, Kanalichhina, Baldhoti, Chiteh near Dwarahat and Labha near
Gairsain contain high grade slate and pavingstone. The Ramgarh group also
contain good quality slate.
Tungsten - Almora- Jaurasi; Chamoli- Dharapani
Uranium - Chamoli- 1-Pokhri, 2-Mohankhal, 3- Nagaram
Rock Phosphate- Dehradun, Tehri-Garhwal.
Minor Minerals- Minor minerals include sand, boulder, Bazari mainly the
river bed material (RBM). The main rivers on which their collection done
Page 5


Mineral Resources of the State
Due to its hilly terrain and complex geology it is very difficult to explore and
locate mineral wealth of the state. It is still more difficult to harness such
mineral wealth. A brief study of mineral resources found in the state has been
made in this chapter. Important minerals occurring in the state are high grade
limestone in Almora, Dehradun, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Pauri Garhwal, and
Tehri Garhwal. Magnesite and talc/steatite/soapstone in Almora, Bageshwar,
Chamoli and Pithoragarh, and tungusten occur in Almora. Chamoli district is
particularly important for mineral resources. Northern part of the district is
known for medium to high grade metamorphic rocks, which also contain
bands of volcanic rocks.
Iron- Almora, Nainital, Pauri.
Asbestos- Pauri, Almora.
Barytes- Koti in Dehradun district
Base Metals- Almora- a. Shisha khani (Lead Prospect) b. Channapani
(Copper Prospect) c. Balaldeo (Lead and Copper prospect); Chamoli- 1-
Barmatiya 2-Dhanpur, 3- Malari, 4-Mohan Khal, 5-Pokhri,6-Dobri, 7-
Lameri, 8-Langasu,9-Ratura; Dehradun- 1-Kwanu (Pb, Zn-Cu belt), 2-
Chamari deposit, 3-Amtiargad, 4-Shallukhan Atoll Zone, 5-Atoll area zone,
6- Shahastradhara prospect; Nainital- 1- Amritpur, 2-Galpakot, 3-Khansyun;
Pauri Garhwal- 1-Bergana, 2- Agrorah Kunet; Tehri Garhwal- 1- Asenu, 2-
Bagori, 3-Dharkot; Pithoragarh- 1-Askot, 2-Baphilla
Copper- It occurs in minor amounts. In Pithoragarh it occurs near
Chandak, east of Kanalichhina. Minor veins of pyrite chalcopyrite occur
within the Gangolihat dolomite. In devalthal area, the magnesite and dolomite
show dissemination of chalcopyrites. Traces of ancient mining and smelting
can be seen near Raiagar. Other important deposits are found in Almora and
Dehradun.
Lead-Zinc, Silver- Mainly found in the districts of Dehradun, Pithoragarh.
It occurs with copper sulphide deposits such as Sisakhani, Chhanapani,
Bhaladeo, Gaul, south of Raiagar, Najibai (south of Berinag), Chandak,
Devalgarh, Tachhira, Bhainskhet, Bheridhauri. The Sisakhani occurance is
the only of some economic value. Lead and zinc mineralization is also
associated with Krol limestone and dolomite near Sahashtradhara in
Dehradun.
Gypsum- The total reserves of gypsum associated with Krol sediments
have been estimated to be 1.1 million tones. Nainital- Between Dhapila and
Sonarmera, Hanumangarhi, Joginath; Tehri Garhwal- 1-Garur Chatti area, 2-
Gugthani area, 3-Mahipur area, 4-Rangargaon Khemsar and Narander Nagar
5- Lakshman Jhula; Dehradun- Jharipani-Sahastradhara and Kalighat area of
Mussoorie.
Limestone/Dolomite- Dehradun- 1-Barkot-Nutiya Deposit, 2-Lambidhar-
Hatipaon Deposit, 3-Song Valley Deposit, 4-Deoban-Bajmara area;
Pithoragarh-1- Dharchula Deposit, 2-Gangolihat Deposit, 3-Rorgaon Deposit;
Tehri Garhwal- Nagni.
In Pithoragarh dolomite is found in three belts- Jhulaghat-Gangolihat-
Jhirauli belt, the Penthasera-rain-Kanda belt and the Dharchula-Kapkot belt
extending westward into the Pindar valley. Large deposits of
dolomite/limestone occur in Krol belt of Nainital hills and Dehradun-
Mussoorie syncline. The main deposits are found in Sisoli, Bhatta, Hathipao,
Jharipani. These deposits have high calcium oxide (50-57%) with low
magnesium oxide, iron oxide, silica, and alumina. The good quality limestone
deposits are exposed around Sahastradhara. Limestone deposits exposed
around Kalsi and Dagura, Tila Gwar and Bhadsi near Lansdowne are also of
good quality. The basal part of Gangolihat dolomite consists of limestone at
number of places. Overlying the Gangolihat dolomite, the Sor slate also
consists of cement grade limestone.
In Pithoragarh three distict limestone belts are recognizable. First extends
from Baste to Naulara (Ramganga valley) in east (20km long, 230m thick); a
thin belt of cement grade limestone from the base of gangolihat dolomite
west of Berinag in Postala-Kulur gad area; and a 13km long 50-200 m thick
horizon south of Gangolihat extending through Nargolgad, Bagaur, Chunala
and Suitola. Cement grade limestone is also found near Jirauli.
Marble- Dehradun- 1-Lambidhar, 2-Charpatti, 3-Kiar Kuli
Pyrites and Sulphur- The Gangolihat dolomites, Sor Slate and Infra-Krol
contain deposits of pyrite and sulphur. Disseminatiom of pyrite are seen in
the Tenjam zone between Kali and Alaknanda valley, along the ori between
Madkot and Sirtola, Soth east of Munsyari in the Tanta and Dhamigao area,
in the Ramganga-Jakhala near Tejam, the Saryu-Lahur valley north of
Bageshwar, the Pindar valley west of Bageshwar, and Pindar valley west of
Kibara.
Phosphorite- The Mussoorie and Nitalidhar syncline has significant
mineral around Maldevta, Durmala, Paritiba, Chamasari, and Jakholi. The
phosphorite occurs with the black shale chest in lower parts of Krol
formation. At Maldevta the thickness is about 7m extending over 1300m.
Dehradun and Tehri Garhwal- 1- Maldevta, 2- Mabrana, 3-Dhurmala, 3-
Kimoi, 4-Jaikhal, 5- Bhusti; Nainital- Baldiyakhan to Darim Khet
Silica Sand- Uttarkashi- 1-Sathang-Deodhar, 2- Jarmola-Dharamandhar, 3-
Malap ka Dhanda-Chantra Dhar
Soapstone - Bageshwar- 1- Birkhal, 2-Maulgar 3-Surog; Chamoli- 1-
Pindar-Kaliganga Valley, 2-Huyna, 3-Dwing, 4-Gulab Koti, 5-Ganasi, 6-
Molta, 7-Irani, 8-Bhuni; Pithoragarh- 1-Bhardarigaon, 2-Bora Ag as, 3-
Ganai, 4-Kimkhet, 5-Phadyali Rain, 6-Agar Agar, 7-Barabesi, 8-Bano
occurrence, 9-Dugal Agar, 10-Kanoli ekhiva, 11-Melapani, 12-Mushgal
Gold- 1-Ralam, 2-Askot, 3-Chalthi, 4-Galakot
Placer Gold- Pithoragarh - 1-Bagwari, 2-Kainur, 3-Bungidhar
Graphite – The occurance of graphite schist and graphite nodules are
known from Kalimat, Sirar, Petsal, and Barini devi north west of Almora.
The graphite schist belt extending over 15 km is found associated with
banded quartzite, garnetiferous mica and scist and gneisses of Almora group.
Almora- 1-Kalimate, 2-Persai, 3-Sirav; Pauri Garhwal- 1-Thailisain, 2-
Kaprauli, 3-Garurchatti; Nainital- Betalghat-Jaurasi
Magnesite - Magnesite is used in steel and cement industries, synthetics,
plastic, paints, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, paper, tanning and textiles.
Uttarakhand is the second largest producer of Magnesite in the country. It
accounts for 53% of total mineral production in the state. As much as 66% of
the recoverable reserves of magnesite are found in Uttarakhand, followed by
Tamil Nadu(18%) and Rajasthan (13%). The most important feature of
Gangolihat dolomite is the lentiform deposits of coarsely crystalline
magnesite in its uppermost horizon. The horizon of magnesite deposit it
extends from Kali in the east to Alaknanda in the west. The magnesium oxide
content is 35-45%. The magnesite horizon occurs in three longitudinal belts.
1- From north of Pithoragarh it extends along Bisabajed, Harigao, Baste,
Deopala, Do—Tusrani, Tihait, Ganni, Tachhini, Phadiari, Bauri, Asom, Salia,
and Dhujraphat (Gangoli region). 2- Panthsera, Gandoli, Dungi, Devalthal,
Doragar, Raiagar, and Kanda extending westward along Bhulgao,
Dewaldhar, towards Girichhina and Someshwar. 3- extends from Panya in
the east toTuper, Jakh, and Jakheri in the west. The Chandak and Jhirauli
deposits are being mined by the Magnesite and Mineral Limited and the
Almora Magnesite Limited respectively. The Devalthal deposits are being
evaluated by the Bharat refrectory limited a GoI undertaking. Almora- 1-
Agar Girechhina Deposit, 2-Dewaldhar Deposit, 3-Kanda Massauli Deposit,
4-Areapani Prospect, 5-Bhurgaon Prospect, 6-Channi Prospect, 7-Lahone
valley, 8-Bauri occurrences, 8- Jhirauli, 9- Girchhina, 10- Pungar Valley.;
Pithoragarh- Chandak, Devalthal, Gol, Kholi-Amthal.; Chamoli- Palla-
Gulabkhoti, Jakhola, Kimana, Healang, and Mamolta.
Talc – Talc is used in industries like soap, print, insecticides, pesticides,
and lubricants. The talk is found along with magnesite. Prliminary survey
indicates occurance high grade talc in Almora and Pithoragarh. The deposits
of Jakhera, Maulagar, Biksha, and Surag(Lahone valley), Agar-Girichhina
(someshwar), Kanda, Khuna, Dayali, and Masauli (Pungar valley), Malahula
Thal, Devalthal-Bhungachhina, Boragar-Raiagar (South of Berinag), are
economically exploitable. Small deposits occur at Karhidhar, north of
Dwarahat, and near Majhaula. The Kanalichhina deposits (Pithoragarh)
contain 0.12 million tones of reserve.
Steatite- Uttarakhand is the second largest producer of steatite in the
country.
Sulphur - Chamoli- Nandprayag; Rudraprayag- Mandakini valley;
Dehradun- 1-Sahastradhara, 2- Manjhera, 3-Sera
Slate and Pavingstone- In Uttarakhand slate has been used as roofing
material. The oldest sedimentary rocks os eastern Kumaun Himalaya consist
of brown and grey slate. The Sor slate formation contains valuable roofing
and pavingstone material. In central Kumaun, the Almora crystalline at
Gumalikhet, Kanalichhina, Baldhoti, Chiteh near Dwarahat and Labha near
Gairsain contain high grade slate and pavingstone. The Ramgarh group also
contain good quality slate.
Tungsten - Almora- Jaurasi; Chamoli- Dharapani
Uranium - Chamoli- 1-Pokhri, 2-Mohankhal, 3- Nagaram
Rock Phosphate- Dehradun, Tehri-Garhwal.
Minor Minerals- Minor minerals include sand, boulder, Bazari mainly the
river bed material (RBM). The main rivers on which their collection done
include Sharda, Gaula, Nandhaur, Kosi, Dabka, Song etc.
Uttarakhand Mineral Policy- 2011
The salient features of Mineral Policy of Uttarakhand are enlisted below:
 Total 30 Minerals are considered as the Major Minerals of State are:
 Agate; Ball Clay; Barites; Calcareous Sand; Calcite; Chalk; China Clay;
Clay Others; Corundum; Diaspore; Dolomite; Dunite or Pyroxenite;
Felsite; Felspar; Fuschite Quartzite; Gypsum; Jasper; Knolin; Laterite;
Lime Kankar; Mica; Ochre; Pyrophyllite; Quartz; Quartzite; Sand Others;
Shale; Silica Sand; Slate; Steatite or Talc or Soapstone.
 For mining of Soapstone, Dolomite, Barite, Silica Sand:
 Up to 2 to 5 Hectares of Land will be provided on lease of 25 years
 More than 5 Hectares of Land will be provided on lease of 50 years
 For opening of the mines which were closed by the Indian Mining
Bureau, Lease after monitoring will be provided to the Director. Rate of
Royalty/Ownership for declared minerals will be paid on the basis of per
tonne of the Out comings. The deferent shall be deposited up to 20
th
 day
of the succeeding month.
 Stamp duty on mining lease deed at the rate of 2% of remaining period of
mining lease at rate of prescribed rent every year. The land will be taken
from land owner shall be taken with the condition of that his field shall
be returned with the plain field.
 Application fees will be as:
 2 Lakh up to 2 hectares.
 4 Lakh for 2 Hectares to 5 Hectares.
 5 Lakh for more than 5 Hectares.