Seventh Five Year Plan 1985-1990 Report of the Sub-Group on Tin, Tungsten and Vanadium August 1984

Abstract

The Seventh Five Year Plan (1985-90) report on Tin, Tungsten, and Vanadium evaluates India’s mineral reserves, production potential, and future demand projections. Tin reserves are limited, requiring extensive exploration and reliance on imports, with anticipated demand of 9,200 tonnes by 1990. Tungsten resources are modest, with domestic production minimal and a projected demand of 8,966 tonnes by 2000, necessitating stockpiling and modernization of mining technologies. Vanadium resources, mainly from vanadiferous magnetite ores and bauxite sludges in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Odisha, are significant, with demand projected to rise from 480 tonnes in 1990 to 890 tonnes by 2000. The report emphasizes enhancing exploration, updating mining and processing technologies, developing domestic production capacities, implementing strategic import policies, and addressing environmental and sustainability concerns. Effective planning and technological advancement are deemed essential for India to achieve self-sufficiency and economic utilization of these critical minerals.