Mineral & Energy Resources – NDA Geography PYQs

NDA 2024-II

Q. 1. Match List I (Hydroelectric Power Plant) with List II (State) and select the correct answer:

List I (Hydroelectric Power Plant)	List II (State)
A. Doyang	1. Arunachal Pradesh
B. Gomuti	2. Assam
C. Kapili	3. Tripura
D. Ranganadi	4. Nagaland

Codes:

(a) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1

(b) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1

(c) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4

(d) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4

Answer: (a) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1

Explanation: Doyang (A) → Nagaland (4). Doyang Hydroelectric Project is on the Doyang River in Wokha district, Nagaland. Gomuti (B) → Tripura (3). Gomati (Gomuti) Hydroelectric Project is in Tripura on the Gomati River. Kapili (C) → Assam (2). Kopili (Kapili) Hydroelectric Project is on the Kopili River in Assam. Ranganadi (D) → Arunachal Pradesh (1). Ranganadi Hydroelectric Project is on the Ranganadi River in Lakhimpur district, Arunachal Pradesh. Concept Tested: Northeastern hydroelectric projects: Doyang (Nagaland), Gomati (Tripura), Kopili (Assam), Ranganadi (Arunachal Pradesh)

NDA 2023-II

Q. 2. Which one among the following pairs of mine and mineral is NOT correctly matched?

(a) Bailadila : Iron Ore

(b) Zawar : Zinc

(c) Ghatsila : Copper

(d) Kudremukh : Bauxite

Answer: (d) Kudremukh : Bauxite

Explanation: Option (d) is NOT correctly matched. Kudremukh: in Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka: is an iron ore (magnetite) mining site, not bauxite. Bailadila → Iron Ore (Chhattisgarh) . Zawar → Zinc/Lead (Rajasthan) . Ghatsila → Copper (Jharkhand, on the Subarnarekha River) . Kudremukh was one of India’s major iron ore producers; its mine was shut down in 2005 following Supreme Court orders for environmental protection. It is exclusively associated with iron ore, not bauxite. Concept Tested: Kudremukh = Iron Ore (Karnataka), NOT Bauxite: a common mine-mineral confusion tested in NDA

NDA 2023-I

Q. 3. Which one among the following states is the leading producer of Manganese in India?

(a) Madhya Pradesh

(b) Jharkhand

(c) Rajasthan

(d) Karnataka

Answer: (d) Karnataka

Explanation: Karnataka is the leading producer of manganese in India, with major deposits in Shimoga, Tumkur, Dharwad, and Bellary districts. Odisha is also a major manganese producer (Keonjhar, Sundargarh). Note that the Q. 13 and Q. 21 matching in this chapter records Odisha as the leading state for Manganese: there is some variation in rankings between surveys and years. The source answer for this direct question is Karnataka. Students should cross-reference with the most recent Forest Survey of India / IBM (Indian Bureau of Mines) data before publication. Concept Tested: Leading manganese producer in India: Karnataka (source answer); Odisha also significant

Q. 4. Mica is mainly used in:

(a) food and beverage industry

(b) iron and steel industry

(c) aluminium industry

(d) electrical and electronic industries

Answer: (d) electrical and electronic industries

Explanation: Mica is an excellent electrical insulator and heat-resistant material. It is primarily used in the electrical and electronics industries for making capacitors, vacuum tubes, electrical insulators, and as a dielectric in electronics. India is one of the world’s largest producers of mica, with major production in Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh. Concept Tested: Mica uses: primarily electrical and electronics industries due to insulating and heat-resistant properties

NDA 2021-I

Q. 5. Which one of the following oil refineries is not located in Assam?

(a) Tatipaka

(b) Numaligarh

(c) Bongaigaon

(d) Digboi

Answer: (a) Tatipaka

Explanation: Tatipaka is a small oil refinery in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh: not in Assam. Numaligarh Refinery: Golaghat district, Assam ✓. Bongaigaon Refinery: Bongaigaon district, Assam ✓. Digboi Refinery: Tinsukia district, Assam ✓. India’s oldest oil refinery (operational since 1901). Concept Tested: Tatipaka refinery: located in Andhra Pradesh (NOT Assam); Digboi, Numaligarh, Bongaigaon are all Assam refineries

NDA 2019-I

Q. 6. Which one of the following is the correct sequence of proved coal reserves in the Indian States in decreasing order?

(a) Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal

(b) Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal

(c) Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh

(d) Odisha, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Jharkhand

Answer: (a) Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal

Explanation: Decreasing order of proved coal reserves (as per Geological Survey of India data): Jharkhand: largest reserves (~26% of India’s total); home to Jharia, Bokaro, Giridih. Chhattisgarh: second largest; Korba, Hasdeo-Arand, Mand-Raigarh. Odisha: third; Talcher, Ib Valley (significant reserves; production has grown rapidly). West Bengal: fourth; Raniganj (India’s oldest coalfield by production start). Concept Tested: Coal reserve ranking: Jharkhand > Chhattisgarh > Odisha > West Bengal

NDA 2018-I

Q. 7. Which of the following are essential pre-requisites for establishment of a thermal power station?

1. Availability of fossil fuels

2. Proximity to a river, lake or sea

3. Good transport network

4. Proximity to an urban centre

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 2 and 4

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1 and 3 only

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: Statement 1 (Fossil fuels): Correct. A thermal power station burns fossil fuels (coal, natural gas, oil) to generate steam that drives turbines. Statement 2 (Proximity to water body): Correct. Thermal stations require large amounts of water for cooling the steam condensers. This water comes from rivers, lakes, or the sea. Most thermal plants are built on or near rivers. Statement 3 (Transport network): Correct. Continuous supply of coal or other fuel is needed. This requires good road, rail, or conveyor transport. Statement 4 (Proximity to urban centre): Not an essential prerequisite. Electricity can be transmitted over long distances via high-voltage lines. Proximity to cities is convenient but not essential for establishment. Concept Tested: Thermal power station prerequisites: fossil fuels, water source, transport network; urban proximity is not essential

NDA 2017-II

Q. 8. Which of the following statements about magnetite ore of iron is/are correct?

1. It is known as black ore.

2. It contains 60% to 70% of pure iron.

3. It possesses magnetic properties.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: Statement 1 (Black ore): Correct. Magnetite is black or dark grey in colour and is called black iron ore. Statement 2 (60–70% iron): Correct. Magnetite contains approximately 70–72% pure iron: the highest of all iron ore types. The range 60–70% cited in the statement is slightly conservative but correct as a lower bound. Statement 3 (Magnetic properties): Correct. Magnetite (Fe₃O₄) is a naturally magnetic mineral: it was the original lodestone. This is the defining characteristic that gives it its name. Concept Tested: Magnetite iron ore: black colour, ~70% iron content, and natural magnetic properties: all three statements correct

Q. 9. Which part of India has the Kalakot tertiary coal field?

(a) Brahmaputra River basin of Assam

(b) Damodar River basin of Jharkhand and West Bengal

(c) Himalayan Mountain region

(d) Cardamon hills in Kerala

Answer: (c) Himalayan Mountain region

Explanation: Kalakot is a tertiary coalfield located in the Pir Panjal Range in J&K: in the Himalayan Mountain region. Tertiary coal (younger, lower grade) is found in the Himalayan foothills and northeastern India: in contrast to the older, higher-grade Gondwana coal of the Damodar valley. The Damodar basin (option b) contains Gondwana coal: not tertiary coal. Assam has tertiary coal at Makum, Ledo, and Margherita: but Kalakot specifically is in J&K (Himalayan region). Concept Tested: Kalakot tertiary coalfield: located in J&K in the Himalayan Mountain region, not a Gondwana field

NDA 2017-I

Q. 10. Match List I (Place) with List II (Mineral) and select the correct answer:

List I (Place)	List II (Mineral)
A. Lakwa	1. Copper
B. Malanjkhand	2. Petroleum
C. Kalakot	3. Zinc
D. Zawar	4. Coal

Codes:

(a) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

(b) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2

(c) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3

(d) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3

Answer: (c) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3

Explanation: Lakwa (A) → Petroleum (2). Lakwa is an oil/gas field in Sibsagar district, Assam. Malanjkhand (B) → Copper (1). Malanjkhand in Balaghat district, Madhya Pradesh, is India’s largest copper mine. Kalakot (C) → Coal (4). Kalakot is a tertiary coalfield in J&K (Himalayan region), not Gondwana coal. Zawar (D) → Zinc (3). Zawar in Udaipur, Rajasthan, is India’s largest zinc-lead complex. Concept Tested: Place-to-mineral matching: Lakwa (Petroleum/Assam), Malanjkhand (Copper/MP), Kalakot (Coal/J&K), Zawar (Zinc/Rajasthan)

Q. 11. Match List I (Mineral) with List II (Leading State): select the correct answer:

List I (Mineral)	List II (Leading State)
A. Manganese	1. Uttarakhand
B. Gypsum	2. Karnataka
C. Limestone	3. Rajasthan
D. Magnesite	4. Odisha

Codes:

(a) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4

(b) A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1

(c) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1

(d) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4

Answer: (c) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1

Explanation: This matching is the same as Q. 13 (NDA 2011-II): Manganese → Odisha (4), Gypsum → Rajasthan (3), Limestone → Karnataka (2), Magnesite → Uttarakhand (1). NDA has tested this exact set twice (2011-II and 2017-I): a confirmed high-priority mineral-state cluster. Concept Tested: Mineral-to-leading-state (recurring NDA fact): Manganese (Odisha), Gypsum (Rajasthan), Limestone (Karnataka), Magnesite (Uttarakhand)

Q. 12. Match List I (Mineral Deposit) with List II (State): select the correct answer:

List I (Mineral Deposit)	List II (State)
A. Gypsum	1. Odisha
B. Graphite	2. Gujarat
C. Fluorspar	3. Arunachal Pradesh
D. Nickel	4. Rajasthan

Codes:

(a) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4

(b) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4

(c) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1

(d) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-3

Answer: (b) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4

Explanation: [Note: The source records two versions of this question (Q166 and Q167) with differing code options; Q167 is flagged as unverified. The answer (b) is from Q166.] Gypsum (A) → Odisha (1): Gypsum deposits are found in Odisha (note: the main Gypsum state is Rajasthan, but here source records Odisha). Graphite (B) → Gujarat (2): Gujarat has graphite deposits. Fluorspar (C) → Arunachal Pradesh (3): Arunachal Pradesh has fluorspar deposits. Nickel (D) → Rajasthan (4): Minor nickel deposits in Rajasthan. Students should verify this matching against the official NDA 2017-I answer key. Concept Tested: Mineral deposit-to-state matching: Gypsum (Odisha per source), Graphite (Gujarat), Fluorspar (Arunachal Pradesh), Nickel (Rajasthan)

Q. 13. Match List I (Classification of resources) with List II (Example) and select the correct answer:

List I (Classification):

A. Basic inexhaustible resource

B. Conventional non-renewable resource

C. Non-conventional renewable resource

D. Non-conventional non-renewable resource

List II (Example):

1. Hydel power

2. Coal

3. Solar energy

4. Natural gas

(a) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4

(b) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4

(c) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3

(d) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1

Answer: (a) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4

Explanation: Basic inexhaustible resource (A) → Solar energy (3). Sunlight is a primary, inexhaustible natural resource. Conventional non-renewable resource (B) → Coal (2). Coal is the classic conventional, non-renewable (fossil) fuel. Non-conventional renewable resource (C) → Hydel power (1). Hydroelectric power is a renewable energy source (water cycle is continuous) but classified as non-conventional in some classification systems. Non-conventional non-renewable resource (D) → Natural gas (4). Natural gas is a fossil fuel: non-renewable: but sometimes classified as non-conventional relative to coal. Concept Tested: Resource classification: Solar (inexhaustible), Coal (conventional non-renewable), Hydel (non-conventional renewable), Natural gas (non-conventional non-renewable)

NDA 2015-II

Q. 14. Which one among the following places is not an iron-ore mining area?

(a) Badampahar

(b) Zawar

(c) Bailadila

(d) Anantpur

Answer: (b) Zawar

Explanation: Zawar is a zinc and lead mining area in Udaipur district, Rajasthan: not an iron ore mine. Badampahar: Iron ore mine in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha . Bailadila: Major iron ore mining complex in Dantewada/Sukma district, Chhattisgarh . Anantpur (Anantapur): Iron ore mining area in Andhra Pradesh . Zawar is a classic NDA trap: students may confuse it with other metallic mining areas. Concept Tested: Zawar: zinc/lead mine (Rajasthan), NOT an iron ore mine; Badampahar, Bailadila, Anantpur are iron ore areas

★ JOVIK Exam Insight Zawar = Zinc (Rajasthan). This is a frequently tested NDA fact. Zawar appeared in Q. 4 (NDA 2017-I) and Q. 19 (NDA 2015-II). Also note: Kudremukh = Iron ore (Karnataka): NOT bauxite (tested in NDA 2023-II). Mine-to-mineral confusion is one of the most common NDA traps in this chapter.

NDA 2015-II

Q. 15. Identify the place that is not an oil field:

(a) Naharkatiya

(b) Kalol

(c) Ledo

(d) Ankleshwar

Answer: (c) Ledo

Explanation: Ledo is a coal mining town in Tinsukia district, Assam: it is a coal field, not an oil field. Ledo is associated with the northeastern coal belt (tertiary coal), not petroleum. Naharkatiya: Oil field in Assam . Kalol: Oil field in Gujarat (Khambhat basin) . Ankleshwar: One of India’s largest onshore oil fields in Gujarat . Concept Tested: Ledo (Assam) is a coal town, NOT an oil field; Naharkatiya, Kalol, Ankleshwar are oil fields

NDA 2014-II

Q. 16. Which one of the following is the correct sequence of oil refineries in India in respect of their time of establishment (starting from the earliest)?

(a) Barauni: Haldia: Guwahati: Mathura

(b) Barauni: Mathura: Guwahati: Haldia

(c) Guwahati: Haldia: Mathura: Barauni

(d) Guwahati: Barauni: Haldia: Mathura

Answer: (d) Guwahati: Barauni: Haldia: Mathura

Explanation: Oil refineries in India established in chronological order (from earliest): Guwahati Refinery: 1962 (Assam; India’s first public sector refinery; on the Brahmaputra). Barauni Refinery: 1964 (Bihar; connected to Assam oil fields via pipeline). Haldia Refinery: 1975 (West Bengal; built to reduce pressure on Barauni). Mathura Refinery: 1982 (Uttar Pradesh; built to meet demand in the north). Note: Digboi in Assam had a refinery from 1901 (colonial era), but it is not among the options here. Concept Tested: Chronological order of Indian oil refineries: Guwahati (1962) → Barauni (1964) → Haldia (1975) → Mathura (1982)

NDA 2013-II

Q. 17. Match List I (Mineral) with List II (Location in map): select the correct answer:

[Note: This is a map-based question. The List II locations are map positions (1–4) without textual descriptions. The source flags this answer as unverified. Verify against the official NDA 2013-II paper.]

List I (Mineral)	List II (Map Position)
A. Mica	1. (Map position 1)
B. Chromite	2. (Map position 2)
C. Magnesite	3. (Map position 3)
D. Zinc	4. (Map position 4)

Codes:

(a) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4

(b) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4

(c) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1

(d) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1

Answer: Source flagged: map-dependent; verify against official NDA 2013-II key.

Explanation: Key mineral locations: Mica: major production in Andhra Pradesh (Nellore), Rajasthan (Bhilwara), and Jharkhand. Chromite: Odisha (Sukinda valley: one of the world’s largest chromite deposits). Magnesite: Uttarakhand (Almora, Pithoragarh). Zinc: Rajasthan (Zawar, near Udaipur: India’s largest zinc mine). Concept Tested: Major mineral production areas: Mica (AP/Rajasthan), Chromite (Odisha), Magnesite (Uttarakhand), Zinc (Rajasthan)

NDA 2012-II

Q. 18. Match List I (Atomic Power Plant) with List II (Position in map): select the correct answer:

[Note: This is a map-based question. The source map is not available. The source flags this answer as unverified. Students should verify against the official NDA 2012-II paper and its associated map.]

List I (Atomic Power Plant)	List II (Map Position)
A. Narora	1. (Map position 1)
B. Rana Pratap Sagar	2. (Map position 2)
C. Tarapur	3. (Map position 3)
D. Kalpakkam	4. (Map position 4)

Codes:

(a) A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1

(b) A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2

(c) A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1

(d) A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2

Answer: Source flagged: map-dependent; verify against official NDA 2012-II key.

Explanation: Key locations: Narora (UP, on Ganga), Rana Pratap Sagar (Rajasthan, on Chambal: part of Rawatbhata complex), Tarapur (Maharashtra, west coast), Kalpakkam (Tamil Nadu, east coast). Concept Tested: Atomic power plant locations: Narora (UP), Rana Pratap Sagar (Rajasthan), Tarapur (Maharashtra), Kalpakkam (Tamil Nadu)

NDA 2012-I

Q. 19. The Damuda series of Gondwana system has three stages: Raniganj, Barren Rocks, and Barakar. The middle stage is called Barren because:

(a) it consists of coal and not iron

(b) it consists of iron and not coal

(c) it consists of neither coal nor iron

(d) it is a sedimentary layer consisting of shale and clay

Answer: (c) it consists of neither coal nor iron

Explanation: The Gondwana coal measures in the Damodar Valley are divided into three formations: Barakar Formation (bottom): contains the most productive coal seams. Barren Measures (middle): called “Barren” because this layer contains neither economically significant coal nor iron ore. It is essentially a non-productive sedimentary unit. Raniganj Formation (top): contains coal seams of somewhat lower quality than Barakar. Concept Tested: Gondwana Damuda Series: Barren Measures (middle stage) contains neither coal nor iron ore

Q. 20. Consider the following coal mines in India: select the correct sequence from east to west:

1. Bokaro

2. Adilabad

3. Raniganj

4. Bishrampur

(a) 1-3-4-2

(b) 3-1-4-2

(c) 3-1-2-4

(d) 1-3-2-4

Answer: (b) 3-1-4-2

Explanation: Approximate longitudes: Raniganj (WB) ~87.1°E, Bokaro (Jharkhand) ~86°E, Bishrampur (Chhattisgarh) ~83°E, Adilabad (Telangana) ~78.5°E. East to west: Raniganj (3, ~87°E) → Bokaro (1, ~86°E) → Bishrampur (4, ~83°E) → Adilabad (2, ~78.5°E). Correct east-to-west sequence: 3-1-4-2. Concept Tested: East-to-west sequencing of coal mines: Raniganj → Bokaro → Bishrampur → Adilabad

NDA 2011-II

Q. 21. Which one among the following is a correct sequence of production of coal in Indian states in descending order?

(a) Jharkhand: Madhya Pradesh: West Bengal: Meghalaya

(b) West Bengal: Madhya Pradesh: Jharkhand: Meghalaya

(c) Jharkhand: West Bengal: Meghalaya: Madhya Pradesh

(d) Madhya Pradesh: Jharkhand: West Bengal: Meghalaya

Answer: (a) Jharkhand: Madhya Pradesh: West Bengal: Meghalaya

Explanation: Jharkhand has historically been India’s largest coal-producing state: home to the Jharia coalfield (India’s largest coking coal reserve) and Bokaro, Dhanbad, and other major mining areas. Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest producer (Singrauli, Korba area before Chhattisgarh separation). West Bengal (Raniganj) is third among this set. Meghalaya has smaller coal fields and produces much less than the others. Concept Tested: Coal production ranking: Jharkhand > Madhya Pradesh > West Bengal > Meghalaya (NDA 2011-II)

Q. 22. Match List I (Minerals) with List II (State): select the correct answer:

List I (Mineral)	List II (State)
A. Bauxite	1. Andhra Pradesh
B. Mica	2. Orissa
C. Copper	3. Madhya Pradesh
D. Zinc	4. Rajasthan

Codes:

(a) A-4, B-1, C-3, D-3

(b) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4

(c) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2

(d) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4

Answer: (b) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4

Explanation: This question is identical in content to Q. 3 (NDA 2007-I). The matching is: Bauxite → Orissa/Odisha (2), Mica → Andhra Pradesh (1), Copper → Madhya Pradesh (3), Zinc → Rajasthan (4). NDA repeated this exact matching in 2007-I and 2011-II: confirming it is a core mineral-state fact. Concept Tested: Mineral-to-state matching (recurring NDA fact): Bauxite (Odisha), Mica (AP), Copper (MP), Zinc (Rajasthan)

Q. 23. Match List I (Mineral) with List II (Leading State): select the correct answer:

List I (Mineral)	List II (Leading State)
A. Manganese	1. Uttarakhand
B. Gypsum	2. Karnataka
C. Limestone	3. Rajasthan
D. Magnesite	4. Odisha

Codes:

(a) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4

(b) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4

(c) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1

(d) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1

Answer: (d) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1

Explanation: Manganese → Odisha (4). Odisha is the leading manganese-producing state in India (Keonjhar, Sundargarh districts). Gypsum → Rajasthan (3). Rajasthan has the largest gypsum deposits in India (Nagaur, Barmer). Limestone → Karnataka (2). Karnataka is one of the leading limestone-producing states (major cement industry). Magnesite → Uttarakhand (1). Uttarakhand (formerly UP hills) has India’s significant magnesite deposits at Almora and Pithoragarh. Concept Tested: Mineral-to-state (leading producer): Manganese (Odisha), Gypsum (Rajasthan), Limestone (Karnataka), Magnesite (Uttarakhand)

NDA 2008-II

Q. 24. Starting from the best quality of iron ore, which one of the following is the correct sequence of iron ore based on the contents of pure iron?

(a) Magnetite: Hematite: Limonite: Siderite

(b) Hematite: Magnetite: Limonite: Siderite

(c) Magnetite: Hematite: Siderite: Limonite

(d) Hematite: Magnetite: Siderite: Limonite

Answer: (a) Magnetite: Hematite: Limonite: Siderite

Explanation: This question is identical in content to Q. 7 (NDA 2008-I). The iron ore quality ranking is: Magnetite (best, ~70–72% iron) → Hematite (~60–70%) → Limonite (~40–60%) → Siderite (lowest, ~40%). NDA tested this sequence in both 2008-I and 2008-II, confirming it is a high-priority fact. Concept Tested: Iron ore quality sequence: Magnetite > Hematite > Limonite > Siderite (recurring NDA fact)

NDA 2008-I

Q. 25. Match List I (Coal Fields of India) with List II (State) and select the correct answer:

List I (Coal Field)	List II (State)
A. Jharia	1. Tamil Nadu
B. Raniganj	2. Orissa
C. Talcher	3. Jharkhand
D. Korba	4. West Bengal

Codes:

(a) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-5

(b) A-2, B-5, C-1, D-4

(c) A-3, B-5, C-2, D-4

(d) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-5

Answer: (a) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-5

Explanation: Jharia (A) → Jharkhand (3). India’s largest coal reserve; the primary coking coal source for the steel industry. Raniganj (B) → West Bengal (4). India’s oldest operational coal field. Talcher (C) → Orissa/Odisha (2). Major coal-producing area in Odisha. Korba (D) → Chhattisgarh (5). One of India’s largest coal-producing regions; supports major thermal power plants. Concept Tested: Coal field-to-state matching: Jharia (Jharkhand), Raniganj (WB), Talcher (Odisha), Korba (Chhattisgarh)

★ JOVIK Exam Insight India’s major coal fields for NDA: Damodar Valley belt (Gondwana coal): Jharia (Jharkhand), Raniganj (WB), Bokaro (Jharkhand), Giridih (Jharkhand). Odisha: Talcher, Ib Valley. Chhattisgarh: Korba, Hasdeo. Madhya Pradesh: Singrauli, Umaria. Andhra Pradesh/Telangana: Singareni. Tertiary coal (non-Gondwana): Assam (Makum/Ledo), J&K (Kalakot), northeastern states.

Q. 26. Which one among the following is the correct sequence of iron ore based on content of pure iron, starting from the best quality?

(a) Magnetite: Hematite: Limonite: Siderite

(b) Hematite: Magnetite: Limonite: Siderite

(c) Magnetite: Hematite: Siderite: Limonite

(d) Hematite: Magnetite: Siderite: Limonite

Answer: (a) Magnetite: Hematite: Limonite: Siderite

Explanation: Iron ore quality is measured by the percentage of pure iron content: Magnetite: highest quality; 70–72% iron; black; possesses magnetic properties. Hematite: 60–70% iron; red or grey; most widely used commercially in India. Limonite: 40–60% iron; yellow-brown; also called brown iron ore. Siderite: lowest quality; about 40% iron; carbonate ore. Best to poorest: Magnetite → Hematite → Limonite → Siderite. Concept Tested: Iron ore quality ranking: Magnetite (best, ~70%) > Hematite > Limonite > Siderite (poorest)

Q. 27. The nuclear power station Rawatbhata is in which state?

(a) Maharashtra

(b) Uttar Pradesh

(c) Rajasthan

(d) Tamil Nadu

Answer: (c) Rajasthan

Explanation: Rawatbhata Nuclear Power Station (also called Rajasthan Atomic Power Station: RAPS) is located at Rawatbhata in Chittorgarh district, Rajasthan, on the Chambal River. It is one of India’s largest nuclear power stations by installed capacity. Concept Tested: Rawatbhata Nuclear Power Station: located in Rajasthan (Chittorgarh district)

Q. 28. For which one of the following is Lamba in Gujarat famous?

(a) Cultivation of oil yielding plants

(b) Wind power plant

(c) Oil refinery

(d) Uranium enrichment plant

Answer: (b) Wind power plant

Explanation: Lamba (also written Lamda) in Gujarat is known for its wind energy farm: one of the early large-scale wind power projects in India. Gujarat is one of India’s leading states for wind energy, with favourable coastal wind patterns. Lamba should not be confused with Koyali (Gujarat’s major oil refinery) or Hazira (gas processing). Concept Tested: Lamba, Gujarat: famous for wind power; Gujarat is a leading wind energy state

NDA 2007-II

Q. 29. India is comparatively not rich in which one of the following minerals compared to the other three?

(a) Bauxite

(b) Copper

(c) Iron

(d) Manganese

Answer: (b) Copper

Explanation: India has large reserves of iron ore, bauxite, and manganese: ranking among the world’s leading producers in each. However, India is relatively poor in copper. India’s copper reserves are modest compared to global standards. The major copper mine is Malanjkhand in Madhya Pradesh. India has to import a significant portion of its copper requirements. This makes copper the correct answer: India is not rich in copper compared to bauxite, iron, and manganese. Concept Tested: India’s mineral richness: comparatively poor in copper; rich in iron ore, bauxite, and manganese

NDA 2007-I

Q. 30. Match List I (Mineral) with List II (State) and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists:

List I (Mineral)	List II (State)
A. Bauxite	1. Andhra Pradesh
B. Mica	2. Orissa
C. Copper	3. Madhya Pradesh
D. Zinc	4. Rajasthan

Codes:

(a) A-4, B-1, C-3, D-3

(b) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4

(c) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2

(d) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4

Answer: (b) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4

Explanation: Bauxite → Odisha/Orissa (2). Odisha is one of India’s largest bauxite-producing states. Mica → Andhra Pradesh (1). Nellore in Andhra Pradesh is a major mica-producing district. Copper → Madhya Pradesh (3). The Malanjkhand copper mine in Balaghat district, MP, is India’s largest copper mine. Zinc → Rajasthan (4). Zawar in Rajasthan is India’s largest zinc-lead mining complex. Concept Tested: Mineral-to-state matching: Bauxite (Odisha), Mica (AP), Copper (MP), Zinc (Rajasthan)

Q. 31. Match List I (Mineral) with List II (Mine) and select the correct answer:

List I (Mineral)	List II (Mine)
A. Bauxite	1. Balaghat
B. Copper	2. Korba
C. Iron Ore	3. Singareni
D. Coal	4. Keonjhar

Codes:

(a) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3

(b) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2

(c) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2

(d) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3

Answer:

Explanation: Standard mine-to-mineral facts: Keonjhar: Iron Ore (Odisha) . Korba: Coal (Chhattisgarh) . Singareni: Coal (Telangana) . Balaghat: Manganese (MP); sometimes copper is also cited at nearby Malanjkhand. The source does not confirm a consistent answer for this question. Verify against the official paper. Concept Tested: Mine-to-mineral knowledge: Keonjhar (Iron), Korba and Singareni (Coal), Balaghat (Manganese/Copper)

NDA 2006-II

Q. 32. Match List I (Mineral Ore) with List II (Location) and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists:

List I (Mineral Ore)	List II (Location)
A. Bauxite	1. Kolhapur
B. Iron	2. Mayurbhanj
C. Manganese	3. Nellore
D. Mica	4. Shimoga

Codes:

(a) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1

(b) A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3

(c) A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1

(d) A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3

Answer: (b) A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3

Explanation: Bauxite → Kolhapur (1). Kolhapur district in Maharashtra is one of the bauxite-producing areas in the southern Deccan. Iron → Mayurbhanj (2). Mayurbhanj district in Odisha has major iron ore deposits (Badampahar mines). Manganese → Shimoga (4). Shimoga district in Karnataka is a major manganese mining area. Mica → Nellore (3). Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh is one of India’s most significant mica-producing areas. Concept Tested: Mineral-to-location matching: Bauxite (Kolhapur), Iron (Mayurbhanj), Manganese (Shimoga), Mica (Nellore)

NDA 2006-I

Q. 33. Match List I (Atomic Power Plant) with List II (State) and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists:

List I (Atomic Power Plant)	List II (State)
A. Kalpakkam	1. Karnataka
B. Narora	2. Madhya Pradesh
C. Rawatbhata	3. Maharashtra
D. Tarapur	4. Rajasthan

Codes:

(a) A-1, B-6, C-4, D-2

(b) A-1, B-4, C-6, D-2

(c) A-5, B-6, C-4, D-3

(d) A-5, B-4, C-6, D-3

Answer: (c) A-5, B-6, C-4, D-3

Explanation: Kalpakkam: on the Bay of Bengal coast near Chennai, Tamil Nadu (5). Home to the Madras Atomic Power Station. Narora: on the Ganga, Bulandshahr district, Uttar Pradesh (6). Rawatbhata: on the Chambal River, Chittorgarh district, Rajasthan (4). Also called Rajasthan Atomic Power Station. Tarapur: on the Maharashtra coast, Palghar district, Maharashtra (3). India’s first nuclear power plant (1969). Concept Tested: Location of atomic power plants: Kalpakkam (TN), Narora (UP), Rawatbhata (Rajasthan), Tarapur (Maharashtra)

★ JOVIK Exam Insight India’s nuclear power plants and their states are a recurring NDA topic. Key facts: Tarapur → Maharashtra (first; 1969). Rawatbhata (RAPS) → Rajasthan. Narora → Uttar Pradesh. Kakrapar → Gujarat. Kalpakkam → Tamil Nadu. Kaiga → Karnataka. Kudankulam → Tamil Nadu. Gorakhpur → Haryana (under construction). NDA has tested Rawatbhata and Tarapur in 2006-I, 2008-I, and 2012-II.

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