Minerals - BPSC (Bihar) PDF Download

Overview of Bihar's Mineral Wealth

• Bihar is blessed with a rich abundance of minerals, which are crucial for the development of a nation.
• These resources are sourced from rocks and various natural deposits.
• The Chotanagpur plateau forms the mineral-rich base of Bihar, boasting extensive coal reserves of high quality.

Mineral Resources in Bihar

Coal Reserves

• Bihar is a significant contributor to the nation's coal reserves, particularly holding substantial deposits in the Chotanagpur plateau.

Pyrite, Bauxite, and Other Minerals

• Bihar plays a dominant role in pyrite production, controlling 95% of the nation's reserves.
• Abundant bauxite reserves are found in the Jamui district of Bihar.
• Various other minerals like cement mortar in Bhabhua, mica in Muzaffarpur, Nawada, Jamui, and Gaya, and salt in Gaya and Jamui contribute to Bihar's mineral wealth.
• The state also produces significant quantities of copper and iron ore.

Significance of Bihar's Mineral Wealth

• Understanding Bihar's mineral and energy resources is crucial for aspirants preparing for state PCS or government exams.
• Questions related to these resources are common in competitive examinations.
• This knowledge is particularly valuable for those aspiring to appear for BPSC exams.

Importance of the Topic

• Bihar's mineral reserves are pivotal for the state's economic growth and industrial development.
• The diverse range of minerals present in Bihar underlines the state's potential in the mining sector.
• The comprehensive knowledge of Bihar's mineral wealth is essential for those aiming to excel in competitive exams.

Energy and Mineral Resources of Bihar: An In-depth Analysis

Energy and mineral resources play a crucial role in the competitive exams, especially for aspirants preparing for state PCS or government exams. These topics are frequently encountered in various competitive examinations, making it essential to have a thorough understanding of them. In this article, we delve into the energy and mineral resources of Bihar, providing comprehensive coverage to aid BPSC exam aspirants.

Significance of the Topic

Relevance to Competitive Exams

Comprehensive Coverage

BPSC Exam Preparation Assistance

Exam Notification, Syllabus, and Pattern

About Minerals And Energy Deposits of State

The state of Bihar predominantly comprises the Gangetic Plains and relies heavily on agriculture for its economic sustenance. Historically, Bihar was a significant mineral producer; however, following its division in 2000, the state retained only a limited share of its mineral wealth, with the bulk of resources now situated in Jharkhand. Consequently, Bihar's mining and quarrying sector lags behind in development.

Mineral Resources in Bihar

• Pyrite stands out as a notable mineral in Bihar, with a staggering 94% of the total production originating from the state. The southern and southeastern regions of Bihar house archean rocks, rich in metallic minerals like gold and bauxite. Districts like Jamui, Nawada, Munger, Banka, Bhagalpur, and Gaya boast significant archean rock formations.

• Vindhyan rock group in southwestern Bihar hosts a variety of non-metallic minerals, including slate, quartz, pyrite, mica, and china clay. Regions like Aurangabad, Nawada, Jamui, and Rohtas encompass these Vindhyan rock deposits.

Overview of Mineral Resources in Bihar

• Non-metallic minerals like slate, quartz, pyrite, mica, and china clay are present in the Vindhyan rock group situated in southwestern Bihar, encompassing districts such as Aurangabad, Nawada, Jamui, and Rohtas.

Principal Minerals Found in Bihar

• The mineral resources of a state form the cornerstone of its industrialization and progress. Bihar boasts a variety of essential minerals crucial for its development.

Gas and Mineral Oil Reserves in Bihar

• Significant mineral oil and gas reservoirs are located in the Katihar and Purnea districts in the northwestern region of Bihar.

Mineral-Based Industries in Bihar

• Bihar houses a range of mineral-based industries that play a vital role in its economic landscape.

Energy Landscape of Bihar

• Bihar's electricity consumption per capita stands at 327.7 kWh, notably lower than the national average of 1030.25 kWh. However, the state faces persistent power shortages.
• Access to reliable, affordable, and high-quality power is imperative for sustained economic growth, job creation, poverty alleviation, and societal advancement.

Overview of Power Companies in Bihar

• Bihar State Power Generation Company Limited (BSPGCL)

  BSPGCL is responsible for coordinating with other power-producing firms, procuring fuel, managing its transportation, and resolving any existing issues.

• Bihar State Power Transmission Company Limited (BSPTCL)

  BSPTCL's primary role involves transmitting electricity across the state and establishing an efficient network of intra-state transmission lines connecting load centers with power generation units.

• North Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (NBPDCL) and South Bihar Power Distribution Companies Limited (SBPDCL)

  These entities are tasked with distributing electricity to consumers and implementing rural electrification programs.

Thermal Power Generation in Bihar

Thermal power plants in Bihar rely predominantly on coal as their primary energy source. Some notable thermal power stations in Bihar include:

• Kanti Thermal Power Station
• Barauni Thermal Power Station
• Muzaffarpur Thermal Power Station

These power stations play a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the state.

Overview of Bihar's Significant Thermal Power Plants

Thermal power plants play a crucial role in generating electricity through the combustion of coal. Bihar hosts several notable thermal power stations that contribute significantly to the state's power supply.

Barauni Thermal Power Station (BTPS)

• Located in Barauni, Begusarai district, the Barauni Thermal Power Station was established in 1962 with assistance from Russia. It operates in conjunction with the Barauni Oil Refinery, sourcing its fuel and raw materials from there.
• In 2018, the Bihar Government entered an agreement to transfer the station to the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC).

Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL)

• Situated in the Kanti block of Muzaffarpur district, KBUNL commenced operations in 1985. It relies on coal from Jharkhand for its functioning.
• Two units, each with a capacity of 110 MW, supply power to Northern Bihar. In 2018, the station was handed over to NTPC.

Kahalgaon Super Thermal Power Station

• Commissioned in 1979 and operational since 1992, this power station in Bihar receives its coal supply from Jharkhand.
• With a total installed capacity of 2340 MW, it plays a vital role in the region's power generation.

Buxar Thermal Power Project

• An agreement was signed in 2015 for the development of two 660 MW Greenfield power projects in Chausa, Buxar, with Saluj Hydroelectric Corporation.
• This initiative aims to add 1320 MW to Bihar's power generation capacity, enhancing the state's energy infrastructure.

Overview of Thermal Power Stations in Bihar

• Barauni Thermal Power Station (BTPS)

  Barauni Thermal Power Station, situated in Bihar's Begusarai district, was established in collaboration with Russian support and commenced operations in 1962. It sources its fuel and raw materials from the nearby Barauni Oil Refinery. In May 2018, the Bihar Government entered into an agreement to transfer the station to the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC).

• Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL)

  KBUNL, located in Muzaffarpur district's Kanti block, was founded in 1985. This coal-fired power plant relies on coal from Jharkhand's mines to generate power for Northern Bihar. It consists of two units, each with a capacity of 110 MW, and was handed over to NTPC in May 2018.

• Kahalgaon Super Thermal Power Station

  Commissioned in 1979 and operational since 1992, the Kahalgaon Super Thermal Power Station in Bihar is a significant power generation facility with a total capacity of 2340 MW. It primarily utilizes coal sourced from Jharkhand for its operations.

• Buxar Thermal Power Project

  An agreement was signed in November 2015 for the development of the Buxar Thermal Power Project, comprising two 660 MW Greenfield power projects at Chausa. This initiative, in collaboration with Saluj Hydroelectric Corporation, aims to provide 1320 MW of power.

Overview of Power Stations in Bihar

Kanti Thermal Power Station

• Located in Kanti block of Muzaffarpur district, Bihar, the Kanti Thermal Power Station was established in 1985.
• The coal used in this coal-fired power plant is sourced from coal mines in Jharkhand.
• This station supplies power to the Northern Bihar regions and comprises two units, each with a capacity of 110 MW.
• On May 15, 2018, the Kanti Thermal Power Station was handed over to NTPC for operations.

Kahalgaon Super Thermal Power Station

• Commissioned in 1979 and operational since 1992, the Kahalgaon Super Thermal Power Station is a significant power generation facility in Bihar.
• It relies on coal supplies from Jharkhand and boasts a total installed capacity of 2340 MW.

Buxar Thermal Power Project

• The Buxar Thermal Power Project involves the development of two 660 MW Greenfield power projects at Chausa in Buxar.
• An agreement was signed in November 2015 with Saluj Hydroelectric Corporation for the establishment of a 1320 MW power generation capacity.

Overview of Power Projects in Bihar

• An agreement was made in November 2015 with Saluj Hydroelectric Corporation for developing two 660MW Greenfield power projects at Chausa in Buxar, totaling 1320MW.

Patna Thermal Power Plant

• Location: Karbigahiya, Patna district
• Description: The plant, managed by Bihar Rajya Vidyut Parishad, is small and aged.

Barh Super Thermal Power Station

• Location: Barh, Patna district
• Commissioned: October 2013
• Commercial Operations Commenced: November 2014
• Owner: National Thermal Power Corporation
• Capacity: 3300MW

Power Stations Overview

• Barh Thermal Power Station
Barh Thermal Power Station is situated in the Patna district. Its operations commenced in October 2013, with commercial activities starting in November 2014. This station, boasting an impressive 3300 MW installed capacity, was developed and is currently owned by the National Thermal Power Corporation.
• Nabinagar Stage-1 Thermal Power Project
The Nabinagar Stage-1 Thermal Power Project, located in Aurangabad, initiated production in 2018. This project, with a generation capacity of 1980 MW, saw the Nabinagar Thermal Power Station transferred to NTPC for a 33-year lease on May 15, 2018.

New Developments in Thermal Power

• Nabinagar Thermal Power Project Details
The Nabinagar Stage-1 Thermal Power Project, situated in Aurangabad, marked the beginning of its production operations in 2018. This project is capable of generating 1980 MW (660 MW x 3). An important milestone was reached on May 15, 2018, when the Nabinagar Thermal Power Station was handed over to NTPC for a lease term of 33 years.

• Nabinagar Stage-1 Thermal Power Project

  • Description

    The Nabinagar Stage-1 Thermal Power Project is located in the district of Aurangabad. This project commenced its production operations officially in the year 2018. With a massive generation capacity of 1980 MW (equivalent to 660 MW x 3 units), it stands as a significant power generation facility in the region.

  • Transfer to NTPC

    On May 15, 2018, ownership of the Nabinagar Thermal Power Station was handed over to NTPC on a lease agreement lasting 33 years. This move marked a strategic shift in operational control and management of the power facility.

• Ultra Mega Power Project (Banka)

  • Overview

    The Ultra Mega Power Project proposed in Banka aims to establish a new thermal power plant with an impressive installed capacity of 4000 MW. This initiative, when realized, will significantly contribute to the power generation infrastructure of the region, meeting growing energy demands.

Overview of Power Projects in Bihar

Below is a detailed overview of the upcoming power projects in Bihar:

Kajara Power Plant

• NTPC is set to construct the Kajara Power Plant in Lakhisarai.
• The project, spearheaded by NTPC, is aimed at enhancing power generation in the region.

Pirpainti Power Plant

• NHPC is overseeing the construction of the Pirpainti Power Plant in Bhagalpur.
• This initiative by NHPC is a significant step towards bolstering the power infrastructure in Bhagalpur.

Hydro Power Projects in Bihar

Bihar is also focusing on hydro power projects to meet its energy needs. Some key projects include:

• Sone River Hydroelectric Project: This project aims to harness the hydroelectric potential of the Sone River to generate clean energy.
• Kosi Hydropower Plant: The Kosi Hydropower Plant is being developed to utilize the water resources of the Kosi River for electricity generation.
• Gandak Hydroelectric Scheme: The Gandak Hydroelectric Scheme envisions tapping into the hydropower potential of the Gandak River for sustainable energy production.
• Burhi Gandak Hydropower Station: The Burhi Gandak Hydropower Station is crucial for leveraging the hydropower capabilities of the Burhi Gandak River.

Related Links

Paraphrasing Hydroelectric Projects Information

The Arwal and Belsar Hydroelectric Projects, both located in Arwal district, were operationalized in the fiscal year 2011-12. Let's delve into the details of these projects:

Arwal Hydroelectric Project

• Located in Arwal district, the Arwal Hydroelectric Project commenced operations in 2011-12.

Belsar Hydroelectric Project

• Situated in the Arwal district, the Belsar Hydroelectric Project also began operating in 2011-12.

Shirkhinda Hydroelectric Project

• The Shirkhinda Hydroelectric Project, situated in Rohtas district, was commissioned in the financial year 2009-10.

This paraphrased information sheds light on the key hydroelectric projects in the region, highlighting their locations and respective commissioning timelines.

Overview of Sebari Hydroelectric Project in Rohtas District

Sebari Hydroelectric Project, situated in Rohtas district, was initiated in the year 2009-10. This project aims to contribute significantly to the renewable energy sector in Bihar.

Location and Commissioning

• Sebari Hydroelectric Project is strategically located in Rohtas district and was officially commissioned during the fiscal year 2009-10.

Renewable Energy Development in Bihar

In a bid to promote sustainable energy sources, the Bihar government established the Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency (BREDA) to harness the state's vast untapped renewable energy potential, estimated at over 12.559 GW.

The project envisions injecting approximately 3433 MW of clean energy into Bihar's energy grid. This clean energy mix will encompass:

• 220 MW of hydroelectric power
• 244 MW of biomass energy
• 2969 MW of solar energy

These renewable energy sources are poised to pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future for the state.

For further information on PSC Exam notifications, please refer to the associated articles linked in the table below:

Understanding PSC Exam Notifications

In this section, we will delve into the essential details regarding Public Service Commission (PSC) exam notifications.

Importance of PSC Exams

• PSC exams serve as a crucial gateway for individuals aspiring to secure government jobs.
• These exams are designed to assess candidates' knowledge, skills, and suitability for various government positions.

Notification Process

• Notification for PSC exams contains vital information such as exam dates, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.
• Aspirants should regularly check for PSC exam notifications to stay updated on upcoming opportunities.

Application Submission

• Applicants are required to provide accurate details during the application process to avoid disqualification.
• Completing the application within the stipulated timeframe is crucial to ensure consideration for the exam.

Verification Process

• Verification steps, such as providing a valid mobile number and email ID, are essential to authenticate applicants' identities.
• Verification mechanisms like OTP (One-Time Password) help in ensuring the security and integrity of the application process.

Conclusion

• Staying informed about PSC exam notifications and following the application guidelines diligently are key to a successful application process.
• Aspirants must adhere to the specified requirements and deadlines to enhance their chances of selection in government job roles.

For other PSC Exam notifications, check the linked articles mentioned in the table below: