The correct answer is option 'D': Central Belt.

The mineral belts in India are known for their rich reserves of various minerals. The Central Belt in India is the country's second-largest mineral belt after the South-Western Plateau Region. Let's explore in detail why the Central Belt is considered the second-largest mineral belt in the country.

- The Central Belt: The Central Belt in India is located in the central part of the country and covers states like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and parts of Andhra Pradesh. This belt is known for its rich mineral resources and plays a significant role in the country's mineral production.

Key Minerals in the Central Belt:

1. Coal: The Central Belt is renowned for its abundant coal reserves. The major coalfields in this region include Singrauli, Korba, Talcher, and Sohagpur. These coalfields contribute significantly to the country's coal production and are crucial for the energy sector.

2. Iron Ore: The Central Belt also holds substantial reserves of iron ore. The major iron ore deposits in this region are found in Bailadila (Chhattisgarh), Dalli-Rajhara (Chhattisgarh), and Ratnagiri (Maharashtra). These deposits are vital for the iron and steel industry in India.

3. Manganese: The Central Belt is also known for its manganese reserves. The major manganese deposits in this region are found in Nagpur-Bhandara region (Maharashtra) and Balaghat region (Madhya Pradesh). Manganese is an essential element used in the production of steel and other alloys.

4. Bauxite: The Central Belt holds significant reserves of bauxite, which is the primary ore for aluminum production. The major bauxite deposits in this region are found in Amarkantak Plateau (Madhya Pradesh) and Lohardaga Plateau (Jharkhand).

5. Limestone: Limestone deposits are also abundant in the Central Belt. They are primarily found in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Limestone is a key ingredient in cement production and several other industries.

6. Other Minerals: Besides the key minerals mentioned above, the Central Belt also has significant reserves of copper, lead, zinc, gold, diamond, and other minerals.

Conclusion:

The Central Belt in India is the country's second-largest mineral belt after the South-Western Plateau Region. It is known for its rich reserves of coal, iron ore, manganese, bauxite, limestone, and other minerals. The exploitation of these mineral resources in the Central Belt plays a crucial role in the country's industrial development and contributes to its overall economic growth.