Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

Plateaus, elevated flatlands formed by tectonic movements, volcanic activities, or erosional processes, are known for their mineral richness. The term "treasure houses of minerals" is apt as plateaus host significant reserves of metallic and non-metallic minerals, fueling industrial growth and economic development globally.

Body

Mineral Wealth in Major Plateaus of the World

• Chota Nagpur Plateau (India): Known as the "Mineral Heart of India," it is rich in:
  • Coal: Supports India's energy sector.
  • Iron Ore: Drives the steel industry.
  • Manganese and Mica: Used in electronics and manufacturing.
    • Jharia coalfields and Noamundi iron ore mines are key contributors.
• Deccan Plateau (India): Formed from volcanic activity, it is rich in:
  • Bauxite: Vital for the aluminum industry.
  • Gold: Found in the Kolar Gold Fields.
    • Black cotton soil (regur) supports agricultural activities like cotton cultivation.
• Colorado Plateau (USA): Renowned for:
  • Uranium Deposits: Essential for nuclear energy.
  • Copper and Potash: Used in electronics and fertilizers.
    • It also boasts scenic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, adding to its significance.
• Tibetan Plateau (China): Rich in:
  • Lithium: Crucial for modern battery technology.
  • Chromite: Used in steel and alloy production.
    • Acts as Asia’s "Water Tower," supporting rivers like the Yangtze and Mekong.
• African Plateaus:
  • Gold: South Africa is renowned for its gold reserves. The Witwatersrand Basin, for example, is one of the largest gold-producing regions in the world.
  • Copper: Katanga Plateau (Congo) holds large reserves of copper, powering the global tech industry.
• Brazilian Plateau: A major source of:
  • Iron Ore and Manganese: Boosting Brazil’s economy.
  • Gold: Historically significant for global trade.

Role of Plateaus in Reflecting Mineral-Based Economic Activity

• Industrial Backbone: Minerals extracted from plateaus support industries like steel, electronics, and energy. (BALCO and NALCO in India)
• Export-Oriented Economies: Countries like Congo and Brazil rely heavily on plateau-based mineral exports.
• Energy Transition: Lithium from the Tibetan Plateau and uranium from the Colorado Plateau are driving the global shift toward clean energy.

Conclusion

The mineral wealth of plateaus underscores their role as "treasure houses," driving industrial and economic growth globally. Plateaus like the Chota Nagpur, Colorado, and Katanga are prime examples of regions where mineral resources contribute significantly to development.