Which is the largest bauxite producing state in India?

Concept

Bauxite is the principal ore of aluminium, and its production in India is concentrated where large lateritic bauxite deposits occur in the eastern plateau belt. The state that holds the highest bauxite reserves and contributes the bulk of national output is the leading bauxite-producing state.

Application

Among the states listed, the eastern plateau state of Odisha (Orissa) holds India's largest bauxite reserves and produces by far the greatest share of the country's bauxite, accounting for roughly three-quarters of national production. Its major deposits lie in districts such as Koraput, Rayagada, Kalahandi and Sundargarh, and it hosts large producers such as NALCO.

Contrast

• Uttarakhand: a Himalayan state with no significant bauxite mining.

• West Bengal: not a notable bauxite producer; its mineral strength lies elsewhere.

• Himachal Pradesh: a hill state without major bauxite deposits.

Hence the largest bauxite-producing state in India is Odisha.