Question

Name the varieties of coal found in India. Give a characteristic of each type of coal.

Answer 1

1. Anthracite:
   • It is found in Jammu and Kashmir only.
   • India lacks sufficient anthracite coal reserves.
   • Anthracite coal is a smokeless fuel with a high calorific value, making it excellent for home use.
   • It is also utilised in metallurgical operations in the iron and steel sector.
2. Bituminous coal:
   • Found primarily in Gondwana coal fields.
   • Used to generate coke, coal gas and steam coal, thus the name ‘cooking coal’.
3. Lignite:
   • Found in Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Kerala and Puducherry.
   • Used to generate energy.
4. Peat: Peat can be found in spots in the Nilgiri mountains, Kashmir valley, and swampy coastal plains.