Final Base Paper Com VIII

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA

NORTH EASTERN REGION
BASE DOCUMENT
OF
CGPB COMMITTEE VIII
GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES
OF
1
GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA
BASE DOCUMENT OF CGPB COMMITTEE VIII GEOLOGY AND MINERAL

RESOURCES OF NORTH EASTERN REGION
(UPDATED UPTO MARCH, 2011)
SL. CONTENTS PAGE
NO.
NO.
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. GEOLOGY OF NORTH EASTERN REGION 1
2.1 Archean 1
2.2 Proterozoic 1
2.3 Precambrian-Paleozoic rocks of Arunachal Pradesh 1
2.4 Arunachal Himalayas 1
2.5 Lower Gondwana Group 3
2.6 Cretaceous Alkaline- Carbonatite Complexes of Northeast India NER 4
2.7 Mesozoic volcanics of Northeast 4
2.8 Late Mesozoic Ophiolites of Northeast 4
2.9 Ophiolite Suite of Nagaland 4
2.10 Ophiolite Suite of Manipur 4
2.11 Cretaceous sediments of Meghalaya 5
2.12 Tertiary of Northeast India 5
2.13 Jaintia Group of Meghalaya and Assam 5
2.14 Disang Group 5
2.15 Barail Group 5
2.16 Surma Group 5
2.17 Garo Group of Meghalaya 6
2.18 Tipam Group 6
2
2.19 Dupi Tila Group 6
2.20 Dihing Group 7
2.21 Quaternary Sediments 7
2.22 Recent deposits 7
2.23 Geology of Sikkim Himalayas 7
3. MINERAL RESOURCES OF NORTHEASTERN REGION 8
3.1 Mineral Resources of Assam 8
3.2 Mineral Resources of Meghalaya 12
3.3 Mineral resources of Arunachal Pradesh 15
3.4 Mineral Resources of Nagaland 18
3.5 Mineral resources of Mizoram 19
3.6 Mineral resources of Tripura 19
3.7 Mineral resources of Manipur 21
3.8 Mineral resources of Sikkim 22
4. GAP AREAS IN RESPECT OF GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES 23
5. AREAS BEING PRESENTLY EXPLORED 26
6. FUTURE PLAN/THRUST AREA FOR INVESTIGATION DURING XIITH PLAN 26
7. PROPOSALS FOR XIITH AND XIIITH PLAN 27
7.1 Proposed work related to geological mapping: 27
7.2 Proposed work related to natural hazards: 27
7.3 Proposed work related to environmental problems 28
7.4 Proposed work related to mineral exploration: 28
7.5 Proposed work related to geotechnical investigations: 29
7.6 Collaborative works with state DGM’s 29
7.7 Activities of Regional Training Institute, Shillong 29
Geological and Mineral Map of North East India
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BASE DOCUMENT OF CGPB COMMITTEE VIII
GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES OF NORTH EASTERN REGION
1. INTRODUCTION
The north eastern part of India, one of the most picturesque parts of our country with an aerial
extent of 2.33 million sq. km., comprises high rising peaks of Arunachal Pradesh, rising to
6000m above mean sea level with temperate to cold climate, and on the other the enormous
flood plain of Brahmaputra River. The Brahmaputra valley is bound by Arunachal Himalaya
in the north and northeast, Patkai – Naga - Lushai range of Nagaland and the Shillong Plateau
in the east and south. The southern scarp of the Meghalaya upland (600 to 1800 m above sea
level) sandwiched between Bangladesh plains in south and the Brahmaputra valley in north,
is marked by magnificent deep gorges. Rocks of diverse geological ages from Archaean to
Quaternary comprise the geological sub-strata of the region.
2. GEOLOGY OF NORTH EASTERN REGION
2.1 Archean: The rocks of Gneissic Complex are exposed mainly in Assam and Meghalaya.
The Archaeans occupy a large part of the central Assam and few isolated inselbergs jutting
out of the Quaternary plains of western Brahmaputra basins. In Meghalaya, the Archean
Gneissic Complex is exposed mostly in the central and northern parts of the Meghalaya
Plateau in West Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, West Khasi Hills and Ri Bhoi districts. The
rocks exposed are gneisses, migmatites and metasedimentary bands intruded by amphibolite,
metadolerite and metapyroxenite.
2.2 Proterozoic: Shillong Group of rocks mainly comprise quartzite with intercalated
phyllites. The type section of Shillong Group is found in Meghalaya. In Assam the rocks of
Shillong Group are exposed along the northern part of North Cachar Hills district and the
western and northern part of the Mikir Hills across the Kopili valley. A number of Neo-
Proterozoic granite bodies, often of batholithic size, transect both Gneissic Complex and
Shillong Group in Assam and Meghalaya.
2.3 Precambrian-Paleozoic rocks of Arunachal Pradesh: The Bomdila Group of rocks

comprises quartz chlorite schist, sericite schist, quartzite and amphibolite that underlie the
gneiss and granitic rocks, and are exposed in Kameng, Subansiri, Siang and Lohit districts.
The granitic and gneissic rocks of Bomdila Group are garnet bearing highly deformed and
mylonitised under ductile shear domains. Tenga and Miri Formations of lower to Middle
Paleozoic age are exposed in Kameng, Subansiri, Siang and Lohit districts, and are
represented by carbonates, Tezu and Tiding limestones, and quartzites, serpentinites of
Tiding and Tellu areas, massive, vesicular basaltic and andesitic rocks of Abor volcanics
associated with Miri Quartzites, developed in the western flank of Subansisri valley, Igo
valley, Basar-Along areas, and in Siang valley areas of Arunachal Pradesh.
2.4 Arunachal Himalayas: The lesser Himalayan zones of Arunachal Pradesh are classified
in two parts (i) The Kameng, Subansiri and Siang Himalaya and (ii) Lohit Himalaya. In
Kameng-Subansisri- Siang Himalayas the Tertiaries, Gondwana Supergroup, Bichom Group
and the metamorphic rocks are disposed with regional ENE-WSW to NE-SW trend, as shown
by attitudes of bedding, foliation and major tectonic lineaments. In the lower Himalayan
Region, NNE-SSW to N-S trends are superimposed on the above regional trend. In the Lohit
Himalayas the rocks exposed belong to Bomdila Group, Tenga and Miri Formations and
Upper Siwaliks. Shella Formation of Higher Himalayas, comprising high grade schists,
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migmatites and gneisses overlying the Dirang schists in the higher Himalaya of Kameng
district of Arunachal. The contact between the garnetiferous gneisses and low grade schists of
Dirang is marked by thrust possibly equivalent to the Central crystalline thrust.
Table-1 STRATIGRAPHIC SET UP OF NORTHEAST INDIA

Age Group Name Formation Lithology
(Thickness)
Recent Unclassified Newer or Low Level Sand, silt and clay
Alluvium
Middle to Upper Unclassified Older Alluvium Sand, clay, pebble, gravel and boulder
Pleistocene deposit
------------------------------------------Unconformity-------------------------------------
Pliocene Dihing Group Dihing Formation (900m) Pebble beds, soft sandy clay, clay,
(Siwaliks of conglomerate, grit and sandstone
Arunachal)
-------------------------------------------Unconformity---------------------------------------
Dupitila Formation (Surma Sandstone, mottled clay, grit and
Valley: 3300 m) conglomerate; locally with beds of coal,
conglomerate and poorly consolidated
Mio- Pliocene sandstone with layers and pockets of
pebbles
Namsang Formation (Upper Coarse, gritty, poorly consolidated
Assam: 800 m) sandstone and conglomerate with coal
pebbles
-----------------------------------------------Unconformity ------------------------
Girujan Clay Formation Mottled clay, sandy shale and subordinate
Tipam Group (1800 m) mottled, coarse to gritty sandstone
Miocene (Siwaliks of Tipam Sandstone Bluish grey to greenish, coarse to gritty,
Arunachal) Formation false bedded, ferruginous sandstone, clay,
(2300 m) shale and conglomerate
Bokabil Formation Shale, sandy Shale, siltstone, mudstone

Surma Group (900 to 1800 m) and lenticular, coarse ferruginous
sandstone
Bhuban Formation Alternations of sandstone and sandy
(1400 to 2400 m) shales and thin conglomerate,
argillaceous in middle part
-----------------------------------------------Unconformity------------------------------------
Renji Formation Massive bedded sandstone; its equivalent
(600 to 1000 m) - the Tikak Parbat Formation in the Upper
Assam is marked by thick coal seam in
basal part
Oligocene Barail Group Jenam Formation Shale, sandy shale, and carbonaceous
(1000 to 3300 m ) shale with interbedded hard sandstone; its
equivalent in Upper Assam the Bargolai
Formation is marked by thin coal seams
Laisong Formation Well bedded compact flaggy sandstone
(2000 to 2500 m) and subordinate shale; its equivalent- the
Nagaon Formation in Upper Assam is
marked by thin bedded, hard sandstone
and interbedded shale
Eocene Disang Group Sub division of Formation Splintery dark grey shale and thin
Assam and Nagaland to be made sandstone
Kopili Formation Shale, sandstone and marl.

Paleocene- Eocene Jaintia Group Shella Formation Sylhet Limestone Member (Fossiliferous
(Exposed in Limestone)
Meghalaya and parts Sylhet sandstone Member
of Assam) (Sandstone, clay and thin coal seam)
Langpar Formation Calcareous shale, sandstone-limestone
-----------------------------------------Unconformity--------------------------------
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Khasi Group of Mahadaek Formation Glauconitic and uraniferous sandstone,
Meghalaya Jadukata Formation conglomerate
Ophiolites of Ultramafics represented by serpentinite,
Nagaland and Manipur peridotite, dunites pyroxenite and gabbro
Cretaceous with pelagic sediment
Alkali Complex Pyroxenite – Serpentinite with abundant
of Samchampi and development of melitite pyroxene rock,
Sung and Mawpyut ijolite, syenite and carbonatite
Complex of
Meghalaya
--------------------------------------------Unconformity--------------------------------
Sylhet Trap Basalt, alkali basalt, rhyolite, acid tuff
Cretaceous (exposed in Meghalaya)
(600m)
Abor volcanics and Massive and vesicular basaltic and
Miri meta sediments of andesitic rocks of Abor volcanics
Arunachla Pradesh associated with Miri Quartzites
----------------------------------------Unconformity------------------------------
Gondwana rocks of Kaharbari Formation of Very coarse to coarse grained sandstone
Middle Assam, Meghalaya Damuda in Assam, with conglomerate lenses, siltstone, shale,
to and Arunachal Pradesh Meghalaya and Arunachal carbonaceous shale and coal
Late Paleozoic Pradesh
Talchir Formation Basal tillite, conglomerate with sandstone
Assam and Meghalaya bands, siltstone and shale
Bichom Group of Slates, quartzites and shales.
Arunachal Pradesh
Bomdila Group, Sela, Dirang and Khetabari Granite gneiss, migmatites, low grade
Precambrian to
Tenga and Khetabari schists schists, phyllites, quartzite and dolomite.
Early Palaeozoic
Formations of Ziro gneiss, Chakoo, Graphite bearing quartz-biotite-
Arunachal Pradesh Daporizo and Sepla gneiss sillimanite schist
-------------------------------------------Unconformity----------------------------------
Neo-Proterozoic Granite Plutons of Porphyritic, coarse grained granite,
Assam and Meghalaya --------------------------------- pegmatite, aplite, quartz vein traversed by
and -- epidiorite, dolerite
----------------------------------------Intrusive contact-------------------------------
Meso-Palaeo Shillong Group --------------------------------- Quartzite, phyllite, quartz – sericite
Proterozoic schist, conglomerate
-----------------------------------------Unconformity---------------------------------
Archean to Gneissic Complex Complex metamorphic group comprising
Proterozoic gneisses and schists, migmatites,
--------------------------------- granulites intruded by acidic and basic
intrusives
2.5 Lower Gondwana Group: The Lower Gondwana rocks are exposed in the extreme
western corner of Assam in Singrimari area, Dhubri district and West Garo Hills district in
Meghalaya. The Gondwana succession in Assam starts with the bouldery conglomerate of
Talchir Formation in the basal part, which is well exposed south of Singrimari township. The
Lower Gondwana sediments in Meghalaya occur as an isolated N-S trending linear body in
the western part Garo Hills. The Gondwana rocks are mostly concealed under the thick cover
of Brahmaputra alluvium. In Arunachal Pradesh, a narrow belt of Lower Gondwana rocks
trending ENE-WSW and dipping steeply due north has been traced from Kameng district in
West, through Subansiri district to Siang district in East. A narrow, linear belt with coal,
flanking Naga- Patkai range, extending from Haflong, Assam in southwest to Namchik-
Namphuk, Arunachal Pradesh in northeast, marks the epi-coastal western part of a
geosyncline deepening eastwards. This belt comprises a system of complex and imbricate
overthrusts and has been referred to as Schuppen Zone. The 350 km strike length of this belt
includes the most important coal-fields of the northeast India NER, viz., Namchik- Namphuk,
Makum, Dilli-Jeypore and Nazira-Borjan.
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2.6 Cretaceous Alkaline- Carbonatite Complexes of Northeast India NER
2.6.1 Samchampi Alkaline complex of Assam: Samchampi Complex in Assam is emplaced

within granitic host rock and consists of syenites, mafic rocks which include alkaline
pyroxenite, shonkinite, biotite, pyroxenite, ultramafics (ijolite, melteigite), apatite-hematite-
magnetite rock, carbonatite and cherty rocks. The carbonatites are mainly sovite with minor
kasenite. Carbonatite bodies with associated rhyolite flows have been located along Brik
nala, south of Matikhola Parbat in Mikir Hills.
2.6.2 Sung valley Alkaline-Ultramafic-Carbonatite Complex: A large Alkaline-

Ultramafic-Carbonatite Complex occurs as intrusive within the Shillong Group
metasediments around Sung. The oval shaped complex depicts a partial ring structure with a
central serpentinite core surrounded by pyroxenite rim. The dominant rock types of the
complex include (i) peridotite, (ii) serpentinite, (iii) pyroxenite, (iv) uncomphagrite, (v)
alkaline rocks (vi) biotite-alkali feldspar rock and (vii) carbonatite. Apatite-magnetite rock is
also present in significant amount in the complex. Carbonatite is sovite and it occurs as small
ovoid lenses composed of biotite, pyrochlore, opaque, olivine and apatite. Apatite-magnetite
veins representing cumulates from the carbonate magma, are also observed in the complex.
Recent radiometric dating by 40Ar-39Ar method on pyroxenite sample from the Sung Valley
Complex has indicated an isochron age of 118.8±4.2 Ma.
2.7 Mesozoic volcanics of Northeast: The Sylhet Traps represented by plateau (flood)
basalts are exposed in a narrow E-W strip (80 km long and 4 km wide) along the southern
border of the Shillong Plateau with a maximum exposed thickness of 550-600 m. The Sylhet
traps overlie the Precambrian basement and are overlain non-conformably by the Upper
Cretaceous-Eocene sediments. The Sylhet Traps comprise predominantly basalts with minor
alkali basalt (nepheline bearing phonolite), rhyolites and acid tuffs.
2.8 Late Mesozoic Ophiolites of Northeast: During Late Mesozoic (Upper Cretaceous)
period the eastern margin of the North-Eastern Region witnessed a long duration upheaval in
the geosynclinal basin that continued till early Tertiary i.e. Eocene period. This upheaval was
confined to a narrow NE-SW trending track, that resulted in intrusion of ultramafic cumulates
and volcanic members resulting in the formation of the ‘Ophiolite suite’ of rocks, exposed in
the eastern fringe of North Eastern Region. The belt with Ophiolite suite’ of rocks extends for
about 200 km from Moreh (Manipur) in south to Chiphur (Nagaland) in north.
2.9 Ophiolite Suite of Nagaland: Ophiolite Suite in Nagaland comprises tectonised
peridotite, cumulate ultramafics including dunite, peridotites and pyroxenites. An important
but rare member of tectonised peridotite is garnet lherzolite, associated with sheared
serpentinite, occurring 2 km east of Luthur. Cumulate ultramafics are extensively developed
and exposed over a wide stretch from Phokphur to Ankhen and New Thewati, Pang-New
Basti foot track and east of Luthur. Cumulate ultramafics of this area contain mainly
harzburgite. The peridotites grade into olivine websterite, olivine- clinopyroxenite and
clinopyroxenite. In the Pang-New Basti, Luthur-Penkim and east of Moki, the cumulate
ultramafics grade into layered gabbros.
2.10 Ophiolite Suite of Manipur: Ophiolite zone of Manipur is linearly aligned in NNE-
SSW direction from Nagaland to Manipur extending nearly parallel to the eastern margin of
the state. The ophiolite assemblage is thrusted over by metamorphics in the east of Jessami in
the northeastern part. Ophiolite sequence of Manipur includes: (1) meta-peridotite, (2)
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ultramafic to mafic cumulates, (3) mafic volcanic sequence and (4) volcano-clastic
sediments associated with chert. The cumulate chromite is associated with dunites, cumulate
peridotites, pyroxenites and gabbros. Podiform chromite was found in association with
metamorphic peridotites.
2.11 Cretaceous sediments of Meghalaya: The Cretaceous sediments exposed in the

Meghalaya Plateau are classified as Khasi Group. The Khasi Group is a distinct arenaceous
facies consisting of the oldest Jadukata Formation (developed only south of the Plateau), a
younger conglomerate unit of 25m thickness, exposed north of the Raibah fault, designated
as Basal Conglomerate Formation and the top Mahadek Formation.
2.12 Tertiary of Northeast India: The Tertiary rocks of Northeast are rested over the
weathered platforms of Precambrian rocks. Sediments of Eocene age are represented by the
Jaintia and Disang Groups. The overlying Barail (Oligocene), Surma (Lower Miocene),
Tipam (Upper Miocene), Dupi tila (Mio-Pliocene) and Dihing (Pliocene) Groups also
represent both shelf and geosynclinal facies. The Tertiary sedimentary history of Assam is an
integral part of the tectono-sedimentary setting of the North East India and is influenced by
the prominent ‘Brahmaputra Arch’ running parallel to Brahmaputra River.
2.13 Jaintia Group of Meghalaya and Assam: The shelf facies sediments (Jaintia Group) of
Eocene age are calcareous and abundantly fossiliferous. In Meghalaya, the Langpar
Formation of the Jaintia Group with intercalated shale thin limestone bands overlies the
Mahadek Formation in Cherrapunjee and Therriaghat sections. In Meghalaya, Tertiary coal
occurrences are recorded in Jaintia Group. Jaintia Group comprising Shella Formation and
overlying Kopili Formation is found around Garampani area of the North Cachar Hills in
Assam.
2.14 Disang Group: The Disang Group is represented by monotonous sequence of dark
grey, splintery, shale with thin sandstone interbands. In Assam, Disang Group is exposed
along a narrow strip southwest of Haflong- Disang thrust in the central part of North Cachar
Hills and in Jatinga valley eastward upto the headwaters of Dhansiri. In Manipur, Disang
Group is restricted to the western and southwestern parts.
2.15 Barail Group: The Barail Group showing geosynclinal facies is subdivided into
Laisong, Jenam and Renji Formations. Lithologically, Barail Group is predominantly
composed of sandstone with minor shale, carbonaceous shale and lenses of coal. In Assam,
Barail Group is exposed along two different strips, in the south-eastern part of North Cachar
Hills, upto the South of Haflong-Disang Thrust. In Meghalaya, the Barail Group is mainly
exposed in the Garo Hills and consists of about 1000 m thick sandstone with minor shale and
carbonaceous shale / coal sequence. In Nagaland, thin sequence of sediments of Barail Group
resting unconformably on a granitic basement is exposed mainly in Dhansiri valley. In
Assam, shelf parts of Nagaland Barail sediments are thrusted over by tectonic slices of
Schuppen Belt. In Manipur, Barail Group is restricted to the western and southwestern parts.
In Arunachal Pradesh, Barail Group is usually succeeded by the Tipam Group with an
apparent erosional unconformity in the Schuppen-belt. It is well developed in Namchik-
Namphuk, Makum, Dilli-Jeypore and Borjan coalfields.
2.16 Surma Group: Barail Group is unconformably overlain by Surma Group of Lower
Miocene period. Surma Group is divided into a lower arenaceous facies (Bhuban Formation)
and an upper argillaceous facies (Bokabil Formation). Bhuban Formation consists of 1400 to
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2400 m thick sequence of sandstone and sandy shale with argillaceous sediments in middle
part, while the Bokabil Formation comprises 900 to 1800 m shale-siltstone-mudstone
sequence with subordinate ferruginous sandstone.
In Assam, these rocks are exposed in Surma valley and North Cachar Hills. In west part of
Manipur, Barail Group has been observed to pass conformably upward into Surma rocks. In
Nagaland, the Inner Palaeogene Fold Belt comprises folded and thrusted Surma Group. In
Mizoram, the rocks of Surma Group mainly occupy the core of the anticlinal folds. The
Bhuban Formation in Mizoram is classified into three parts, lower, middle and upper. Lower
Bhuban Formation is predominantly arenaceous, Middle Bhuban Formation is predominantly
argillaceous and Upper Bhuban Formation is again predominantly arenaceous. Overlying
Bokabil Formation comprises shale, siltstone and thinly bedded sandstone alternation with
sub-ordinate micaceous sandstone. In Tripura, rocks of Bhuban Formation are exposed in the
central part of Jampui, Sakhan and Langtaral ranges.
2.17 Garo Group of Meghalaya: The Surpra-Kopili Tertiary sequence of Meghalaya shelf
(viz. Garo Group) is represented in Garo Hills by the Simsang Formation, which conformably
overlies the Kopili Formation without any break in sedimentation. These rocks are equivalent
to the Surma Group of the other States.
2.18 Tipam Group: Tipam Group comprises 2300 m thick lower Tipam Sandstone
Formation and 1800 m thick Girujan Clay Formation. In Assam, the rocks of Tipam Group
are exposed intermittently over a stretch of 300 km, in the Surma valley from Langding to
Digboi. Girujan Clay is exposed on the hills along Chargola and Longai valleys, and on the
hills in Jatinga and Cachar district. In Labak-Diksha and Darby-Dwarband areas of Assam,
both Tipam and Surma Groups contain fragments of silicified and semi carbonised fossil
wood. Tipam Group also contains several oil-sand horizons in Upper Assam. In Nagaland,
thin sequence of Tipam Group resting unconformably on a pre-Tertiary granitic basement is
exposed mainly in Dhansiri valley and parts of Schuppen Belt. Lower Tipam Formation
consisting of thick unit of fine to medium grained sandstone, subarkosic sandstone with thick
lenticular bands of sandy shale, siltstone and sandy mudstone is exposed in Tripura. Fossil
wood of Miocene age is reported from Khowai bridge at Teliamura. Fossilised tree trunks
measuring 1 to 1.6 m in length and 0.39 to 0.85 m in diameter are reported from Hawabari,
Phulkamari. Upper Tipam Formation exposed near Champaknagar in Tripura, consists of
massive arkosic sandstone with layers of sandy shale and silicified fossil wood. In Mizoram,
Tipam Formation conformably overlies Bokabil Formation in northern and western parts of
Mizoram. Fossil wood has been recorded from this formation.
2.19 Dupi Tila Group: Tipam Group is unconformably overlain by the Mio-Pliocene
Dupitila Group consisting of coarse, loose and ferruginous sand, clay, mottled clay, mottled
sandstone and poorly consolidated sand with pockets of pebbles. In Surma valley of Assam,
Dupitila Group attains a thickness of 3300 m. In Upper Assam, Dupitila Group is represented
by fluviatile Namsang Formation, which consists of coarse, gritty, poorly consolidated
sandstone, mottled clay and conglomerate. Lignitised fossil wood fragments are abundantly
found in this group. In Tripura, Dupitila Group comprise thin conglomerate, unconsolidated
ferruginous sandstone and clay bands. In Garo Hills of Meghalaya, the Dupitila Formation
represents mainly deltaic to fluviatile facies.
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2.20 Dihing Group: Dupitila and Namsang Formations are succeeded by fluvial Pliocene
deposit named as Dihing Group consisting of thick pebble beds alternating with coarse
grained, soft sandstone, clay, grit and conglomerate containing partially decomposed plant
remains. In Assam, Dihing and underlying Namsang Formation are well exposed along
Dihing river section near Jaipur in Upper Assam.
2.21 Quaternary Sediments: Quaternary sediments in Northeast are mainly confined to

Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland and Tripura states. In Assam, Quaternary deposits
occur along the northern border of the state, around Digboi and Margherita and along the
southern border of the state facing the Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh and along
Nagaland border. A major part of the area flanking the Brahmaputra River in Lower and
Upper Assam is covered by thick Quaternary fluvial sequence. In Meghalaya, Quaternary and
Recent deposits overlie the Tertiary rocks along the southern and western borders of Garo
Hills in isolated areas and along the southern fringes of Khasi Hills.
2.22 Recent deposits: Recent deposits in Northeast India are represented by sand-silt-clay
sequence in Bhramaputra and Surma River valleys in Assam, and in the foot hills of Garo and
Khasi hills of Meghalaya. Few recent sediments also occur in Manipur, Mizoram and
Nagaland.
2.23 Geology of Sikkim Himalayas: Sikkim is mostly covered by Precambrian

metamorphics of low to medium grade (Daling Group), high grade gneisses (Darjeeling
gneiss and Kanchendzonga gneiss), Chungthang Formation (quartzite, calc-silicate rock,
marble, graphite schist and occasionally amphibolite) with intrusive granite (Lingtse granite
gneiss) and Phanerozoic rocks including Gondwana and Tethyan sedimentaries. The
Palaeozoic and Mesozoic (Tethyan) sequence in the northeastern and northwestern part
of Sikkim are fossiliferous.
The Gondwana Supergroup consists of sandstone, shale, and carbonaceous shale with
occasional thin bands of coal and pebbly shale horizon.
Daling Group of rocks can be classified into three formations: (i) Gorubathan Formation;
characterized by quartz-chlorite-sericite schist, phyllite and quartzite (ii) Reyang
Formation; characterized by quartzite (occasionally calcareous), phyllite interbanded with
carbonaceous slate and (iii) Buxa Formation; characterized by presence of dolomitic
limestone interbanded with phyllite and development of organo-sedimentary structures
(stromatolites).
The Kanchendzonga Gneiss is high grade metamorphic rock containing quartz, feldspar with
streaks of biotite. The Chungthang gneiss is quartz-biotite gneiss with calc-silicate, marble,
graphite schist and quartzite. A streaky sheared granite gneiss known as "Lingtse Gneiss"
occurs as a NE-SW to N-S trending strip and forms a general line of separation between the
Daling and the high grade Kanchendzonga gneiss. The Tethyan sedimentary rocks exposed
in the northern part of Sikkim are represented by Everest Phyllite Formation (shale/phyllite),
Mount Everest Limestone Formation, Lachi Formation (conglomerate with thick diamictite
base) and Tso Lhamo Formation (calcareous shale, limestone band, calcareous sandstone).
The rocks have undergone at least three phases of deformation resulting in folds of various
types. The earliest fold (F1), developed by buckling is overturned and isoclinal with axial
plane trending NW-SE. The trend of axial plane of this fold is also the regional schistosity of
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the area. The second generation fold (F2) is upright, close to open type. These folds are
coaxial with open F1 folds. The third generation folds (F3) is broad open fold with its axial
plane trending roughly E-W.
3. MINERAL RESOURCES OF NORTHEASTERN REGION
3.1 Mineral Resources of Assam
3.1.1 Oil: Hydrocarbon indications have been encountered reported in the Eocene rocks (i.e.
Disang) at Chantongia (Naga-Patkoi Hills), at Borholla and presence of gas are noted in
Eocene sand near Tengakhat and upper part of Barails. The oil occurs primarily in Tertiary
sandstone bands in the upper shale-coal sequence, and in the upper most part of the thick
sandstone underlying the shale-coal sequence. Oil in Barail Formation is closely associated
with sulphur rich coal, which is low in ash. Tipam Formation is also an important oil
producing horizon and sizeable accumulations exist in a number of structures close to the
Naga- Patkoi hills. The Tipam Sandstones are good reservoir rocks for petroleum
accumulation.
3.1.2 Coal: The coal occurrences in Assam are reported from two geological horizons viz.,
Gondwana and Tertiary, of which Tertiary coal deposits of Makum, Mikir Hills and Dilli-
Jeypore are the most important coalfields. The Gondwana coal deposits in west Garo Hills of
Meghalaya extend into the Hallidayganj area, Dhubri district; known as the Singrimari Coal
deposit with estimated 2.79 million tonnes of non-coking coal. The Tertiary coal deposits of
Assam are the major coal resources of the state. The Tertiary coal deposits are reported from
rocks of Eocene and Oligocene age. Coal deposits of Eocene are also found in Mikir Hills,
where as Makum and Dilli-Jeypore coalfields belong to Oligocene age.
3.1.3 Limestone: Thick deposits of limestone, belonging to Shella Formation of Jaintia

Group in Assam extend more or less as continuous belt along the southern base of Meghalaya
Plateau. Between Jadukata River in the west and Lubha River in the east, three prominent
limestone bands are reported viz. Lower, Middle and Upper Sylhet Limestone with
intervening Middle and Upper Sylhet Sandstone.
3.1.4 Building Stone: Granite and granite gneisses occurring along the northern hills of the
Shillong Plateau in Goalpara, Kamrup and Nagaon districts are quarried for use as building
material and road metals. A number of similar quarries are seen at several places near
Guwahati by the side of National Highway NH-31 and NH-37. The pink and grey granite
found in parts of Karbi Hills, in Goalpara and Dhubri districts are suitable for production of
decorative building stones.
3.1.5 Clay occurrences: Fire clay commonly occurs in association with coal seams of Upper
Assam. Several thin fire clay bands containing small amounts of impurities are found with
seams in Makum and Jaipur coalfields. In Namdang-Ledo area, fireclay bands are found
below the coal seams that belong to the Barail Group. The inferred resource of fireclay
around Namdang is estimated to be 47,115 tons. Kaolin (China clay) is reported from Dora
River in Lakhimpur district. Recently, kaolin has been found as an altered product of feldspar
in granites of Selvetta area. Kaolin of ‘Grade II’ has been located in Upper Deopani area.
Large deposits of black alluvial clay are located near Mathurapur along Sibsagar–
11
Nahorkatiya road in Sibsagar district. Black clay is also found within Dihing Group and
Older Alluvium in several parts of Dibrugarh district.
3.1.6 Iron: Iron ores in the form of magnetite, hematite and goethite in ferruginous quartzite,
are found near Chandradinga Hill, Chakrasila range and Malai Hills in Goalpara district. The
iron content varies from 23 to 50%. The estimated resource are 12 million tonnes in
Chadradinga Hill, 2.2 million tonnes in Malai Hill, and 0.64 million tonnes in Chakrasila
range. The DGM, Assam has inferred a total resource of 7 million tonnes and 1 million
tonnes in Lengupara and Kumri Hills, respectively. A few bands of banded hematite–
quartzite are located near Ranighat over an extent of about 1500 m. Iron ore occurrences have
been reported from Malegarh and adjacent Lengupara and Kummi hills in the Goalpara
district.
3.1.7 Sillimanite: Significant concentration (10% to 15% of the bulk) of sillimanite has
recently been reported from sillimanite bearing biotite schist of Bamuni area of Nagaon
district.
3.1.8 Radioactive minerals: In Bargaon, Donkamokam and Teragaon (Karbi-Anglong

district) radioactivity due to thorium and uranium has been noticed in pink porphyritic biotite
granite. Carbonatite samples from Khumbaman Parbat yielded 1000 ppm – 1500 ppm Nb and
high concentration of Zr and Sr. In Dillai area, Karbi Anglong district, laterites exposed in
bed of Kailajan River show radioactivity due to thorium.
3.1.9 Pyrochlore: The mineral pyrochlore is reported from soil in the eastern part of the
Samchampi Alkaline Complex, comprising magnetite / hematite rock, showing enrichment of
apatite. The major portion of Nb values comes from the fine fraction of soil (finer than 200
mesh). The anomalous block has been sampled by auger holes at a grid interval of 250 m x
250 m upto a depth of 1 m and overall a small portion upto 4.2 m depth. Uraniferous
phosphate breccias bodies, having small dimension of 20 to 125 m with grade of U ranging
from 0.009 to 0.030 % U3O8 are also reported.
3.1.10 Other mineral occurrences: Occurrences of minor base metal sulphide minerals are
reported from Gneissic Complex of Mahamaya, Pancharatna, Agia areas and Deolina-
Khardong Hills in Goalpara district. Minor beryl has been reported from some of the
pegmatite veins in Golapara district and gneissic rocks in Naga-Largo-Mukjap area of the
northeastern parts of Karbi Hills. Feldspar occurs in pegmatites in Precambrian massif in
Karbi and North Cachar Hills, Goalpara and Kamrup districts. Pegmatite veins containing
feldspar occur in biotite gneiss near Pancharatna in Goalpara district, where veins upto 40
meters thick have been reported. Occurrences of feldspar are recorded from Gowardhan Hill,
west of Suarmari (25º49':90º30") and also from many places in pegmatite veins traversing
Archaean rocks in Goalpara district. Minor occurrences of gypsum within shales have been
reported from Badarpur and Mahur in North Cachar Hills district. Selenite crystals in clays
are seen in Mayoung Disa area in Karbi Hills. Along southern border of Goalpara district,
sparse disseminations of pyrite in quartzo- feldspathic gneiss, hardly exceeding 35 percent
even in the richest portion, is traced for about 1.6 kms along crest of Gowardhan Hill, west of
Suramari. Small pyritiferous lenses have recently been reported from the gneisses of Purana
Mengoan area of Karbi Anglong district. A tentative resource of 1413 tons has been
estimated. Thin veins of pegmatite containing small books (10 cms x 7 cms) of muscovite
along with feldspar, tourmaline and smoky quartz occur in Naga Langso and Mukjam Hills
areas along Kaliani River, Mikir Hills. An unusual lepidolite rock comprising almost entirely
12
flakes of lepidolite mica is found in association with pegmatite veins in biotite-gneiss and
pyroxenites occurring on the north of Dhir Bil in Goalpara district.
3.1.11 Hot springs:
a) Garampani : On the right bank of Kopili River there are three sulphurous hot springs that
lie on faulted contact between Lower Sandstone Member and overlying Sylhet Limestone
Member of Shella Formation belonging to Jaintia Group. The water of the springs is of Na-
HCO3-SO4 type and the temperature, pH and discharge values are 47.4ºC to 55ºC, 7.4 to 8.2
and 65 liters per minute, respectively.
b) Nambar: A hot spring is located near the bridge on Golaghat-Dimapur road, 18 kms south
of Golaghat town. The water has a sulphurous smell, temperature of about 35ºC and a
discharge of about 35 liters per minute.
c) Lumding: A warm spring with salt and sulphur is reported from Kopili shales in
sandstone (Upper Eocene) exposed along the Samkhujan stream. No detailed information is
available about this spring.
d) Luhajuri-Bajajuri- Tarapung nala sections, Central Mikir Hills: A few warm springs
having N–S alignment has been reported from these nala sections. These probably denote a
fault zone through Precambrian granitic terrain.
13
Table – 2 Resources of Minerals as on 01.04.2005: Assam
(Data Source: Indian Minerals Year Book, 2009)
Mineral Unit Reserves Remaining resources Total

Resources
Proved Probable Total Pre-feasibility Measured Indicated Inferred Reconnaissa Total
(A) nce (B)
STD STD STD STD STD STD 331 STD 332 STD 333 STD 334
111 121 122 221 222
China clay .000 tonnes - 131 - 131 3360 - 392 - 166 - 3912 4043
Fire clay .000 tonnes - - - - - - 44 - 3117 - 3161 3161
Fuller's earth tonne - - - - - - - - 18860000 - 18860000 18860000
Granite (Dim. Stone) .000 cu m - - - - - 513000 - 800 70150 - 583950 583950
Iron ore (Hematite) .000 tonnes - - - - - - 8600 2400 1600 - 12600 12600
Iron ore (Magnetite) .000 tonnes - - - - - - 4240 1600 9540 - 15380 15380
Limestone .000 tonnes 57156 157519 2000 216675 - 4257 98233 32200 953572 - 1088262 1304937
Quartz-silica sand .000 tonnes - - - - - - - 1790 - 1790 1790
Sillimanite tonne - - - - - - 850000 6700 3748000 4604700 4604700
Coal (as on 01.04.2009) million tonnes 387.52
Figures rounded off
Table-2A Resources of Coal as on 01-04-2009 : Assam (in Million tonnes)

Coalfield Proved Indicated Inferred Total
Total 348.65 35.85 3.02 387.52
Singrimari - 2.79 - 2.79
Makum 315.96 11.04 - 327.00
Dilli-Jeypore 32.00 22.02 - 54.02
Mikir Hills 0.69 - 3.02 3.71
Source : Coal Directory of India 2008-2009
14
The proved and indicated balance recoverable resource of crude oil and natural gas as on 1-4-
2009 are 173.74 million tonnes and 131.45 billion cu m, respectively, including those of
Nagaland, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh.
3.2. Mineral Resources of Meghalaya
Meghalaya state mainly has four principal mineral deposits viz., limestone, coal, sillimanite
and clay. The extensive belt (approx. 200 km long) of good quality limestone occurring along
the southern border of the State opens a new vista of exploitation of these deposits with the
emergence of Bangladesh market. The limestone deposits in the neighbourhood of
Cherrapunjee are already sustaining a cement factory. This is the only mineral based industry
in the State at present fed by the indigenous raw materials of coal and limestone.
3.2.1 Limestone: The Tertiary rocks occurring in Jaintia, Khasi and Garo-hills contain large
resources of cement and chemical grade limestone in East Khasi hill, Borsora and Bagii in
West Khasi hill, Lakadong, Lumshnong and Nongkhlieh in Jaintia hills, Darrang Era-Aning,
Siju, Chokpot in South Garo hills. In Meghalaya, largest deposit occurs in and around Litang
River valley area in Jaintia hills district, which belongs to Shella Formation rocks of Jaintia
Group of Eocene age.
3.2.2 Coal: Coal occurrences are confined mainly to the Tertiary sediments of Garo, Khasi
and Jaintia Hills district and in the Lower Gondwana sediments in the West Garo Hills
district and extending into the border state of Assam. Tertiary coalfields of Garo hills are
located along the southern extremity of Shillong plateau as scattered patches and bound by
latitudes 25°12 to 25°44'N and longitudes 89°58' to 90°58' E. Coal occurs in the Tura
Sandstone (Eocene) of Jaintia Group. The Gondwana coalfields of Meghalaya restricted to
the Garo hills are exposed in the Singrimari basin on the northwestern corner of Garo hills
bordering Dhubri district of Assam. The area is bounded by latitudes 25°44' to 25°45'10"N
and longitudes 89°53'30" to 89°54'15"E. The coalfields of Khasi hills bound by latitudes
25°10' to 25°42'N and longitudes 91°40' to 91° 55'E, are located in the southern periphery
along the international boundary with Bangladesh.
3.2.3 Uranium deposits: Uranium mineralisation has since been established in the sandstone
of Cretaceous Mahadek Formation in Meghalaya. Two significant uranium deposits namely
Domiasiat (now called Kylleng – Pyndengsohiong -Mawthabah uranium project) have about
10,000 tonnes of U-oxide in 9.22 million tonnes of ore with an average grade of 0.104 %
U3O8 and Wahkyn about 5300 tonnes of U-oxide in 3.6 million tonnes of ore with an average
grade of 0.130 % U3O8 have been established. Besides, encouraging occurrences are noted at
Gomaghat, Tyrnai, Phlangdiloin, Umthongkut, Wahkut, Lostoin etc. in the West Khasi Hills
district, where investigation is under progress at few locations.
3.2.4 Pyrochlore: A small body of alkaline complex is identified at Sung Valley, Jaintia
Hills district of Meghalaya. Rock types identified are pyroxenites, carbonatites, ijolites,
magnetite etc. High order radioactivity, chiefly due to pyrochlore, was found to be associated
in the soil developed over carbonatite bodies. Sampling at 250 m x 250 m grid pattern upto a
depth of 1.5 m over an area of 5 sq. km has been carried out. Sizeable resource of pyrochlore
has been found.
15
3.2.5 Uranium anomalies in Garo Crystalline: The Precambrian crystalline terrain of West
Garo Hils district in the western part of Meghalaya plateau has been identified as the
potential target for iron oxide breccias type of uranium mineralization. A number of
uraniferous radioactive anomalies have been recorded from Resubelpara, Ringi around Dasol
nala in Simsang river section hosted by pegmatoids, quartzo -feldspathic injection and
sheared granites at Anek. The values range from 0.014 to 0.61 % U3O8 with negligible
thorium.
3.2.6 Sillimanite: Sonapahar sillimanite deposit covers an area of about 205 sq km scattered
in about fifteen important deposits. The massive lensoid bodies of sillimanite-corundum are
contained mostly in quartz-sillimanite schist and in a few places in biotite-sillimanite-quartz
schist and the surficial float concentrations are derived from these bodies due to prolonged
and intensive weathering.
3.2.7 Base metals: Polymetallic base metal mineralization in Umpirtha is located within the
sequence of high grade Archaean gneisses comprising fine to medium grained granite and
granite gneiss, migmatised biotite gneiss with amphibolite and micaceous quartz-sillimanite
schist. The base metal mineralisation is associated with hornblende-hornfelsic assemblages
comprising of cummingtonite- anthophyllite, cordierite, actinolite-tremolite and some
carbonates, occurring as lenses within the biotite gneiss unit.
3.2.8 Feldspar: The thick pegmatite veins within the Archaean metamorphics of the Garo
hills at places contain large crystals of feldspars. Promising deposits of feldspars for use in
industries may be located near Tura, Anegiri, Gangjalgiri, Santhagiri, Chisakgiri and at
certain other places.
3.2.9 Glass sand: The white sandstone occurring in Cherrapunjee and Laitryngew contains
angular and pure grains of quartz which may be used in the manufacture of bottle glass. The
inferred resource is 406,400 tonnes in Laitryngew area.
3.2.10 Kaolin/Clay: White clay has been found to occur 2.4 km west and 6 km north of
Sohrarim and near the 23 km post on Cherrapunjee Road and the inferred resource of crude
clay being 6.5 million tonnes and 8,100 tonnes respectively. The crude is expected to yield
15% of pure clay on levitation. White clay is also reported from Nongalbibre in South Garo
Hills and Rongrengre in East Garo Hills districts. Good quality Kaolin occurs around Smit
and Latiyngkot in East Khasi Hills, Thandlaskein, Shaongpuang, Mulieh and Mynsngat in
Jaintia hills and Darugiri in East Garo Hills districts.
3.2.11 Dimensional stone: Deposits of multicoloured granite have been located around
Nongpoh in Ri-Bhoi district Mylliem in East Khasi Hills district and Nongstoin in West
Khasi Hills district, Mendipathar and Songsakin in East Garo Hills districts.
16
Table -3 Resource of Minerals as on 01.04.2005 : Meghalaya
Mineral Unit Reserves Remaining resources Total Resources

Proved Probable Total Pre-feasibility Measured Indicated Inferred Total (A+B)
STD 111 STD 121 STD 122 (A) STD 222 STD 331 STD 332 STD 333 (B)
Apatite tonne - - - - - - - 1300000 1300000 1300000

China clay .000 tonnes - - - - - 1890 5786 81199 88875 88875
Copper
Ore .000 tonnes - - - - - - 880 - 880 880
Metal .000 tonnes - - - - - - 9 - 9 9
Felspar tonne - - - - - - - 37449 37449 37449
Fireclay .000 tonnes - - - - - - - 10999 10999 10999
Granite (Dim. Stone) .000 cu m - - - - - - - 286467 286467 286468
Iron ore (Hematite) .000 tonnes - - - - - - - 225 225 225
Iron ore (Magnetite) .000 tonnes - - - - - - - 3380 3380 3380
Lead-zinc
Ore .000 tonnes - - - - - - 880 - 880 880
Lead metal .000 tonnes - - - - - - 16.50 - 16.50 16.5
Zinc metal .000 tonnes - - - - - - 14.00 - 14.00 14
Limestone .000 tonnes 85470 59240 12579 157289 186000 459600 2588804 12662369 15896773 16054062
Phosphorite/Rock - - - - - - - 1311035 1311035
phosphate tonne 1311035
Quartz-silica sand .000 tonnes - - - - - - 177 6906 7083 7083
Sillimanite tonne - 55807 55807 55807
Silver
Ore tonne - - - - - - 880000 - 880000 880000
Metal tonne - - - - - - 19.80 - 19.80 19.8
Titanium minerals - - - - 3345000 - - - 3345000
Anatase tonne 3345000
Figures rounded off
17
Table 3A: Resources of Coal as on 01-04-2009: Meghalaya (in million tonnes)

Total 89.04 16.51 470.93 576.48
West Darangiri 65.40 - 59.60 125.00
East Darangiri - - 34.19 34.19
Balphakram- - - 107.03 107.03
Pendenguru
Siju - - 125.00 125.00
Langrin 10.46 16.51 106.19 133.16
Mawtong Shelia 2.17 - 3.83 6.00
Khasi Hills - - 10.10 10.10
Bapung 11.01 - 22.65 33.66
Jaintia Hills - - 2.34 2.34
3.3 Mineral resources of Arunachal Pradesh

3.3.1 Graphite: Graphite (amorphous) occurrences are reported in Lower Subansiri district
as small pockets and as lenses (40 to 80 metre long and 20 to 30 m wide) within a sequence
of phyllitic quartzite and calc-silicate rock, near Khetabari over a stretch of 5 km. Occurrence
of amorphous graphite with average carbon content of 16.23 % in grey phyllite is recorded at
Bopi in Upper Subansiri district. North of Bopi, resource of graphite bearing rocks have been
calculated as 3,67,175 tonnes with average graphitic carbon of 8.5%. Southeast of Bopi, the
resource are 51.250 tonnes with 9.9% average graphitic carbon. Graphite bearing rock
reported from the area between Lamdak and Ange-Lamdak in Upper Subansiri has an
estimated resource of 41.875 tonnes with 5.3% average graphitic carbon. The average
graphite content of amorphous graphite deposit is about 16.24 %. The resource is estimated at
about 330 million tonnes to a depth of 140 metres. In Taliha area the main graphite band is
exposed along both the banks of Subansiri River and extends over a strike length of about 50
meters. A 30 million tonnes resource of graphite has been estimated upto a depth of 90
metres. In Ninging area of Upper Siang, three graphite schist bands with 150 m to 300 m
length and 10 to 20 m thickness is exposed between Rubang nala and Ninging village. A
probable resource of 44.8 million tonnes has been estimated for these graphite bands. The
benificiation study indicated high content of ash (86-92 %) as well as high volatile matter
(4.9-6.8 %). In Dibang valley, flaky variety of graphite occurs within grey phyllite and
phyllitic quartzite at Hunli, 90 km from Roing on Roing-Hunli road. The graphite bearing
grey phyllite and phyllitic quartzite is exposed within a width of 800 metres. In Lohit district,
15 bands of graphite bearing schist (over a strike length of 1,100 m and average width of 300
m) occur within the garnetiferous schists at Lalpani with average graphite content of the
schist at 5.86 %.
3.3.2 Hot springs: These occur (with temperature of 41-42° C) around Dirang, Bishum and
Bulu areas in West Kameng along the thrust contact between Dirang Formation and the Sela
Group. Hot springs have been reported from Brani from west bank of Dari River along a
NW-SE trending fault in biotite schist in Dibang valley district. About 30 thermal springs
have been located in the Subansiri and Kamala valleys. These springs with temperature of
37.8 to 51.7°C and discharge of 30.6 t 90 lit/sec are located at Taksing, Maja, Chetu and Rige
(most of the springs are confined to Taksing, Maja and Chetu). On the left bank of the
Subansiri River near Chetu a group of hot springs are located within a radius of 42 m on the
right bank of Tsari Chu, 5 km north of Maja. The hot springs at Chetu are located in a zone
of shearing and emanate through marble, whereas in Taksing and Maja, they emanate through
18
phyllites. The residue on evaporation of the spring water showed high concentration of B, Li,
V, Sr, Mn and F.
3.3.3 Saline springs: In Tirap district, saline springs located along south to north are-
Bunting-Lamsa area, Borduria area, and Namsang Lonkhong area. The springs originate
mostly in Disang beds, but a few are located in Barail rocks also. Although no distinct source
of salinity is yet known, it is surmised that the source is deeper or below the exposed Disang
Shales and the brine represents the connate water in the marine sediments. Water temperature
from these wells was recorded as varying from 16 to 18.5° C during the months from
November to February. The depth and diameter of the wells vary from 1 to 2.5 m and 1 to 1.5
m respectively. The discharge of saline water varies from 1 to 3 cubic metres per hour.
3.3.4 Limestone: Workable deposit of limestone of Palaeozoic age is located in Arunachal
Pradesh near Dali area in West Siang district with resource of 225 mt, Tidding in Lohit
district with a resource of 140mt, Hunli area in Dibang valley with a resource of 36.12mt,
Pangin, Lokpeng in East and West Siang District with 37mt. Besides, rich and workable
deposit of the Palaeozoic dolomite occurs in Rupa area in Kameng District with a resource of
185 mt.
3.3.5 Marble: In West Kameng district, marble associated with Lumla Formation (Dirang
Formation) is located between Gispu, Lumla, Bakhar, and Namstering. It is a white,
crystalline, siliceous rock occurring as alternate bands with quartzites and mica schist. In
Dibang valley district, two bands of impure marble of 40 m and 150 m width occur along the
Tangan River. Another thin impure marble band is observed along the bank of Ichhi nala
near Endolin. A 200 m thick, white, cross-jointed marble band occurs 3 km north of Granli.
The marble contains more than 50 % CaO. Two occurrences of marble are reported within
the metamorphic rocks near Tezu in Lohit district.
3.3.6 Coal: The coal of Arunachal Pradesh are located mainly in Namchik- Namphuk area
and Miao Bum area in the eastern part of Tirap District, with an indicated resource of 85 mt
(upto a depth of 600m) and 6 mt (upto a depth of 200m), respectively. A linear belt of 350
km from Haflong in Assam, to Namchik-Namphuk area of Arunachal Pradesh in NE holds
promise for presence of more Tertiary coal.
3.3.7 Uranium anomalies: The Middle Proterozoic Siang group of rocks equivalent to the
Daling group of Darjeeling Himalayas are found to contain uranium mineralisation at a
number of locations along 400 km long by 40 km wide belt extending from Kameng in the
west to Siang in the east. None of them have, however been established as economic deposits.
The chief uranium minerals are uraninite, brannerite and many secondary uranium minerals
such as uranophane, torbernite etc. associated with sulphides, such as pyrite, chalcopyrite.
Hydrothermal vein type uranium occurrences are located at Jameri, Rukhu, Tai, Kaying area
(West Siang and west Kameng districts) hosted by quartzite-phyllite sequence of Siang
Group and Miri quartzites.
At few localities, such as Gamak, Kau nala, Maro-Basirijo, New Badak in the Upper
Subansiri district, U mineralisation is associated with Fe-Cu-REE and hosted by the meta-
volcano sedimentary rocks of Siang Group.
3.3.8 Base metals: Occurrences of minor base metal mineralisation have been recorded from
West Kameng, East Kameng, Upper Subansiri, Lower Subansari, West Siang, Dibang valley,
Lohit and Tirap districts. In West Kameng, minor sulphide mineralisation (galena and
sphalerite) is found within the Mukatung Formation (Chilliepam Formation) comprising
mainly phyllite with bands of dolomite and quartzite. The average Pb-Zn content is less than
19
1.5%. Sulphide mineralisation in metasediments of Khetabari Formation of Precambrian age,
is recorded around Pakro area in West Kameng district. In Lower Subansiri district, three
different types of mineralised zones i.e. Cobaltiferous pyrite zone mainly in the north of the
Ranga River, having a strike length of 250 m with 0.03% to 0.25% Co, Nickeliferous
pyrrhotite zone mainly in the south of the Ranga River with a strike length of 185 m with
0.28% Ni and sporadic high values of Pb (upto 4.6%) and Zn (upto 2.20%) have been
recorded.
3.3.9 Iron: In West Siang district, hematite-magnetite has been found east of Tirbin. It occurs
as a vein deposit in the fine-grained schist and phyllite. Chemical analysis shows 53.6 to
62.6% of Fe. Minor occurrences are found near village Yomcha (28°00':94°03').
3.3.10 Molybdenite: In Dibang valley district, occurrence of minor molybdenite within
quartzo-felspathic vein near Apruni (28°35': 95°51', 82P/14) was reported, which has limited
strike extension of about 5 metres.
3.3.11 Platinoids: In Dibang valley district, ultramafic bodies intruding the para-
metamorphites of Ithun Formation (of Bomdila Group) in Myodia area have analysed Pt
values ranging from <5 ppb to 50 ppb and Pd value less than 10 ppb. In Lohit district,
investigation for PGE in the serpentinite body occurring near Tidding village indicated upto
73 ppb Pt and 134 ppb Pd.
3.3.12 Clay: In West Kameng near Bhalukpong-Tipi foothill area, clay beds are associated
with soft, friable sandstone unit of Upper Siwaliks and sandstone-shale sequence of Middle
Siwaliks. Total nine occurrences of clay bearing horizons, mainly in the area around Tipi-
Dippi- Mausari nalas have been identified. An inferred resource of approximately 54,350
tonnes of clay is estimated for all the 23 bands, of which 2700 tonnes from six bands are
found to be of good quality. In East Kameng district, occurrence of thin beds and lenses of
clay in Upper Siwaliks are reported from Majuli nala, Seijussasu nala, Dikrai nala Tarasu
nala, Batibasti nala, Giladhari nala, Bargang river section, Gangtunga and Dibru nala
section.
3.3.13 Dolomite: Dolomite occurrences at Dedza in West Kameng district are reported over a
strike length of 1.5 km with a width of 250 metres. The dolomite deposit is located to the
southwest and west of Rupa in the form of a down faulted block within the low-grade
metamorphics of Tenga Formation. Total 185 million tonnes of probable resource has been
estimated. A number of fine-grained grey dolomite limestone outcrops along Siang River
between Pasighat and Pugging have been reported.
3.3.14 Rock Phosphate: In Subansiri district, samples of dark shale and calcareous band
within Gensi area exposed near 30 km stone have recorded P2O5 upto 7 %. In Siang district
banded phyllites 22 km south of Basar on Likabali-Along road having more than 1.85 km
strike length and 250 m width have recorded P2O5 content as 0.4 %.
3.3.15 Flux grade Mg rich rocks: In Lohit district, a serpentinite body (with MgO – 4.50 to
40.0 % exposed along the Damwe- Hayuliang road section near Tidding, measuring 3 km in
strike length and of 50-100 m width may find its use as flux material in iron and steel
industry. Flux grade Mg rich rock in ultramafic contain MgO – 35.0 to 38 % and SiO2 32.0 to
38.0 %.
20
Table-4 Resources of Minerals as on 01.04.2005 : Arunachal Pradesh
Mineral Unit Total Reserves Remaining resources Total
million tonnes (A) Indicated Inferred Reconaiss- Total Resources
STD 332 STD 333 ance (B) (A+B)
STD 334
Dolomite ’000 tonnes - 204 77633 - 77837 77837
Fuller's earth Tonne - 10700 20000000 - 200010700 200010700
Graphite Tonne - - - 72758257 72758257 72758257
Limestone ’000 tonnes - 49220 433575 - 482795 482795
Quartzite ’000 tonnes - - 5270 - 5270 5270
Figures rounded off
Resources of petroleum crude and natural gas in the State are included in Assam and are not available separately.
Table-4A Resources of Coal as on 01-04-2009: Arunachal Pradesh

(in Million tonnes)

Total 31.23 40.11 18.89 90.23
Namchik 31.23 40.11 12.89 84.23
Miaobum 0.00 0.00 6.00 6.00
3.4. Mineral Resources of Nagaland
The belt with ‘Ophiolite suite’ of rock extends for about 200 km from Moreh in Manipur, to
northeast of Chiphur in Nagaland. Garnet- lherzolite, gabbro, plagio-granite, with
undifferentiated ultramafic cumulates comprising pyroxenite, dunite, harzburgite and
peridotite; volcanic members of the suite are represented by basic and intermediate volcanics
with flows, pillows and breccia. Podiform chromite is the main economic mineral of the
‘Ophiolite suite’ of rock with high Cr2O3 content (>45%). Apart from chromite, cobalt, and
nickel, thin coal bands, limestone, epsomite and sporadic sulphide occurrences are also
reported. Inferred resource of Cobalt and Nickel ore in Nagaland are given in Table-5.
Table-5 Resource of Minerals as on 01.04.2005 : Nagaland

Mineral Unit Reserves Remaining resources Total

Proved Total Indicated Inferred Reconaiss- Total Resources
STD 111 (A) STD 332 STD 333 ance (B) (A+B)
STD 334
Cobalt ore million tonnes - - - 2.5 2.5 5 5
Iron ore .000 tonnes - - 5280 - - 5280 5280
(magnetite)
Limestone .000 tonnes 825 825 1010000 27000 - 1037000 1037825
Nickel ore million tonnes - - - 5 - 5 5
Figures rounded off
Resources of Petroleum crude and Natural gas in the State are included in Assam and are not available
separately.
Table-5A Resources of Coal as on 01-04-2009 : Nagaland ( in Million tonnes)

Total 8.76 - 13.18 21.94
Borjan 5.50 - 4.50 10.00
Jhanzi-Disai 2.00 - 0.08 2.08
Tiensang 1.26 - 2.00 3.26
Tiru Valley - - 6.60 6.60
21
3.5. Mineral resources of Mizoram
3.5.1 Coal: Occurrence of 3 m long and 10 cms thick, grey, pyrite-bearing, lignite patch has
been reported from south of Chubel village, in ferruginous, brownish, yellow, soft, Bokabil
sandstone. About 6.5 kms southeast of Ngopa, a few lenticular pockets of coal are located
within very fine grained, greyish white sandstone of Barail Group.
3.5.2 Limestone: Sporadic occurrences of limestone bands and boulders within Upper
Bhuban Formation have been located 7 kms NE of Muthi village, 3 kms east of Kwarte
Thanwveng, 5 kms east of Sesawang village, Dam Lui- Nghrum Lui near the Turial bridge
and near Laipui Tlang (Chanmari Lui), at Aizawl and near P.H.E. rest house on Reick-
Aizawl road. Bands of shell limestone occurring at Muthi extend over a strike length of over
150 m. Shell limestone boulders ranging in size from 1 to 1.5 cubic metres, embedded within
sandstone-siltstone of Upper Bhuban Formation, have been noticed on Aizawl-Reick road.
The shell limestone boulders occurring at Chanmari- Lui (Aizawl) and Nghrum Lui near
Turial bridge vary in size from 0.1 to 1.0 cubic metres. The Mizoram State Department of
Industries (Geology and Mining Wing) has proved 5200 metres3 of decorative shell limestone
at Ngrum Lui near Turial Bridge and 6000 metres3 at Sesawang.
3.5.3 Building material: In view of the scarcity of hard rocks in Mizoram, the massive, hard
compact, grey, calcareous sandstone of Lower and Upper Bhuban Formations in different
parts of the State are suitable for use as road metals and building material.
3.5.4 Gas and Oil: Indication of oil, saline springs and few gas seepages are reported in the
central part of Mizoram. While salt spring has been located north of Sabual village in western
part of Mizoram, recently, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation has taken up exploration in a big
way in Western Mizoram.
3.5.5 Clay: A thin horizon of clay is noticed northwest of Borai, near Momchera and in the
valley near Phura village. At Borai and Momchera, clay is dark grey in colour and is found
associated with buff coloured medium to fine grained, less compact, friable sandstone. At
Plura village, the clay is silty and at places mixed with sand. This clay has a vast potential
for making bricks.
3.6 Mineral resources of Tripura
Glass sands, lignite, limestone, and plastic clay deposits are some of the mineral resources in
Tripura. Besides, hard rocks available in the state have been used as construction material.
The most important mineral resources in Tripura are oil and natural gas, which are being
explored by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation.
3.6.1 Clay:
Mohanpur-Damutia-Kamalghat area: Clay deposits occur along the right bank of Lahor
nala near Otlaba village, southeast of Mohanpur. Two lenses, 0.20m to 1.25m thick, grey to
greyish white plastic clay occur under thick 0.50 to 1.25m overburden. About 9000 tonnes of
plastic clay, including some sandy clay, has been estimated in the two bands.
Bishramganj-Bagma area: The clay deposits occur along alluvial valley and at the base of
the isolated hillocks at south of Bishramganj. The hillocks are made up of ferruginous silty
sand in the upper part and greyish white to pink, highly plastic clay in the lower part. Other
small deposits of clay are also reported from south of Bhagma, Noachaara and Rangahara
River. Grey to white plastic clay has been reported from two localities near Bishramganj.
22
Detailed exploratory estimates show 1.6 million tonnes of low grade clay of possible category
at the northwest of Bishramganj, along the left bank of Rangapani nadi.
Champamura-Baldakhal-Jogendranagar area: The clays are alluvial and confined to the
area between Bageswar River in the west and Haora River in north. A few pockets of white
clay were also located at the base of isolated hillocks. The clay pockets overlie a 1 to 1.5
metres thick band of sand. Mottled clay, a weathered product of shale has been reported in
shallow pits near Agartala. White, plastic clay is reported from Jogendranagar area, near
Agartala, at the base of small hillocks near College Tilla, south of Haora River. Kaolinite is
the dominant mineral constituent of these clays. Resource of about 1 million tonnes of plastic
clay from Baldakhal area, 35,000 tonnes from Jogendranagar area and 50,000 tonnes from
Chamapamura has been reported.
Shantir Bazar-Udaipur area: The area between Udaipur and Shantir Bazar, is a hilly terrain
made of loose, brownish yellow, silty sand mixed with clay, showing pockets of relatively
pure plastic clay. The physico-chemical tests indicate that these clays are suitable for the
manufacture of facing tiles, roofing tiles, stoneware pipes etc.
Khowai-Teliamura-Amphi area: Pockets of white clay are seen along the North-South road
cuttings of Khowai-Amphi. The clay is white to dull cream coloured, highly plastic, and can
be utilised for ceramic industry.
Kumarghat area: Holocene alluvial deposits of Manu and Deo Rivers near Kumarghat
contain clays. The clays are associated / intermixed with sand and silt and three varieties are
identified viz. (a) sand-silt-clay alluvium, (b) brown sandy / silty clay and (c) grey plastic
clay.
Sand-Silt-Clay: Sand-silt-clay deposits occupy flood plains and palaeochannels of recent to
subrecent rivers. Fine-grained sand, brown to yellow in colour, occurs between Lungas, or
mounds of alluvial deposits, in the northern part of the area. The sand is white to grey, and
silt is yellowish brown due to presence of iron oxide, along the river banks. It is often
intermixed with clay, grey to black in colour due to presence of decayed organic matter.
Brown sandy clay / silty clay: This is reddish brown to yellowish brown in colour. The high
percentage of iron imparts the reddish colour. This clay contains admixtures of sand / silt
between 30 to 90%.
Grey plastic clay: This is steel grey in colour and becomes white on drying. Sometimes
organic material is present which makes the clay black. A total resource of about 9.31 mt of
clay was estimated over an area of 5 sq km.
Baidyathakurpara-Anandnagar-Maheshkhola-Dukli and Soanimuri areas: Plastic clays
occur at Baidyathakurpara- Anandnagar- Maheshkhola- Dukli area, West Tripura district and
Soanimuri area, North Tripura district, in point bars, meanders and flood plains of Manu,
Haora rivers and their tributaries. The deposits occur as pockets and lenses within Quaternary
formations. Total resource of 2.61 million tonnes of plastic clay has been estimated from
these areas.
3.6.2 Glass Sand: Dupitila Formation contains sand deposits, which may have been
reworked by the then prevailing river systems and redeposited in the Holocene flood plains.
The sand deposits occur along the banks of Bijni-Nandi stream in Bisramganj
(23º36'30":91º21') and have been traced for nearly 1.3 km along NW-SE with an estimated
resource of 1,60,000 tonnes. The glass sand resource of 50,000 tonnes has been estimated
near Old Agartala. Glass sand resource at Baidyathakurpara, Dukli, Maheshkhola and
23
Anandnagar area of North and West Tripura districts, are estimated to be 85,563 tonnes upto
15 metre depth, while 97,875 tonnes of glass sand was estimated from Mohanpur area
(23°58'38":91°22'), West Tripura district. On the bank of Haora River, sands occur within
Holocene sediments consisting of coarse grained silica, micaceous sand and sandy silt. Total
53,316 tonnes of glass sand has been estimated around Dasaram Bari area, West Tripura
district,
3.6.3 Hard rock Resources: Hard rock resources are found along the slopes of Jampui hills
comprising sandstones and shelly rocks, and along Longtarai hill ranges containing sandstone
bands with subordinate siltstone. Preliminary estimates of resource indicate nearly
952,347.29 cum of hard rock in the area. A resource of about 10,000 cum hard rock up to a
depth of 5 m has been estimated from Doapta Chhara, Phuldengsei, Khantlang area of Jampui
hill range, North Tripura district. Calcareous sandstone / siltstone bands in Bhuban
Formation occur as thin lensoidal hard rock bands. A preliminary resource of 47,537 cum is
estimated in calcareous sandstone and siltstone of Upper Bhuban Formation, exposed near
North Sakhan range, Sermantilla- Kobangshi Tilla.
3.6.4 Lignite: Minor occurrences of lignite have been reported near Ujan-Tangang near
Hirachara, Dertirchara, North of Kumarghat areas. The bands vary in thickness from 15 to 60
cms.
3.6.5 Limestone: Minor bands of shell limestone occur at Sakhan and Jampui ranges. The
limestone bands are thin and lensoid in nature, occurring as interbanded sequence within the
calcareous sandstone and shale. Preliminary field surveys indicated resource of about 90,000
metric tonnes of limestone near Manpui.
Table-6 Resource of Minerals as on 01.04.2005 : Tripura

Mineral Unit Total reserves (A) Remaining resources Total Resources
Measured Inferred Total (B) (A+B)
STD 331 STD 333
Fire clay .000 tonnes - 1 369 370 370
Quartz silica sand .000 tonnes - 326 164 490 490
Figures rounded off
Resources of Petroleum crude and Natural gas in the State are included in Assam and are not available
separately.
Sources of resources of Petroleum crude and natural gas in Tripura are included in Assam
and are not available separately
3.7 Mineral resources of Manipur
Occurrences of chromite and limestone are reported from the Chandel and Ukhrul distrcts of
Manipur where the Ophiolite sequences are predominantly exposed.
Table-7 Resource of Minerals as on 01.04.2005: Manipur
Mineral Unit Total Reserves Remaining resources Total

million tonnes (A) Measured Indicated Inferred Total Resources
STD 331 STD 332 STD 333 (B) (A+B)
China Clay ’000 tonnes - 2520 - - 2520 2520
Chromite ’000 tonnes - - 529 6052 6581 6581
Limestone ’000 tonnes - 19953 2138 23962 46053 46053
Figures rounded off
24
3.8 Mineral resources of Sikkim
3.8.1 Basemetal: The most important occurrences in the Eastern Sector of Sikkim are
Rangpo, Pachekhani and Dikchu, located east of the river Tista. These deposits are mainly
stratabound in the low-grade rocks of Gorubathan Formation. A number of base metal
occurrences are located to the East of Namchi between the Tista river in the east and
Little Rangit river on the west. A number of occurrences are located in the Nayabazar area,
many of which were explored in the early part of the 20th century by Burn & Company, and
in early 60's by GSI. Most of these occurrences are hosted in Quartz vein and are of little
significance. In the eastern sector, Sikkim Mining Corporation was exploiting the
basemetal occurrences at Rangpo and Pachekhani, however, at present only the Pachekhani
occurrence is being mined.
3.8.2 Dolomite: Both high-grade massive and low-grade flaggy types of dolomites have been
located in Rishi area, west of the Jorethang- Legship State Highway. On either banks of Rishi
Khola; four blocks of dolomite have been located and in one block a resource of more than 1
mt of dolomite has been estimated by GSI down to a depth of 3 m. These are low-grade
dolomites which can be used for neutralization of soil.
3.8.3 Limestone: Grey limestone interbanded with green phyliite has been located in Rishi
Khola, south of Namgaon. At places the band is about 38 m thick. Limestone occurrence
near Nayabazar area is of cement grade.
3.8.4 Graphite: Lumpy and flaky graphite has been located at Chitre and Dareli of West
District in graphite schist, marble and limonitised pegmatite of Chungthang Formation.
3.8.5 Talc: A small occurrence of talc associated with quartzite at Mausari village was
mined by M/s. Sikkim Minerals (P) Ltd. The talc is lumpy and occurs along fractures in the
host quartzite.
3.8.6 Marble: Greyish to creamy white coarse-grained marble bands occur at northeast and
northwest of Chungthang, 13.3 km northwest of Chungthang, Lachen Road and Malten
Shiva Temple, 6 km northeast of Chungthang. These occurrences belong to Chungthang
Formation.
3.8.7 Coal: Regional exploration by GSI around Namchi area of South district has
established a resource of 1.4 lakh tonnes of bituminous to semi-anthracite coal, analyzing
40 to 60% fixed carbon, 4 to 22% Ash, 8% to 13% Volatile matter and 3% Moisture. Thin
coal seams (1 m to 5 m) are reported on the road linking Legship with Nayabazar and to the
south of Put Khola.
25
Table-8 Resource of Minerals as on 01.04.2005: Sikkim
Reserves Remaining resources Total

Mineral Unit Probable Measured Inferred Resources
STD 121 STD 122 Total STD 331 STD 333 Total (A+B)
(A) (B)
Copper
Ore .000 tonnes 448.49 63 511.49 300 150 450 961.49
Metal .000 tonnes 7.77 0.91 8.68 8.47 4.23 12.7 21.38
Dolomite .000 tonnes - - - - 2756 2756 2756
Lead-zinc
Ore .000 tonnes 435.85 63.78 499.63 300 150 450 949.63
Lead metal .000 tonnes 6.9 1.68 8.58 - - - 8.58
Zinc metal .000 tonnes 12.88 3.14 16.02 3 1.05 4.05 20.07
Limestone .000 tonnes - - - - 2380 2380 2380
Marble .000 tonnes - - - - 2382.80 2383.08 2382.08
Quartzite .000 tonnes - 1125 1125 - 15993.7 15993.7 17118.7
Silver
Ore tonne 435843 63780 499623 300000 150000 450000 949623
Metal tonne 15.25 0.04 15.29 27.6 13.8 41.4 56.69
Talc/steatite/ .000 tonnes - 60 60 - - - 0.60
soapstone
million
Coal tonnes 101.23
Figures rounded off.
4. GAP AREAS IN RESPECT OF GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES
NER covers a total of 446 toposheets out of which 335 sheets have been compiled
so far and 18 sheets are under compilation. Six sheets are to be taken up for mapping. A
total of 87 sheets are non-compilable as the area is not approachable or toposheets are not
available.
4.1 An area of 3651 sq km is yet to be covered by Systematic Geological Mapping in the
state of Assam. The area includes hard rock area of 2528 sq m and Quaternary area of
1123 sq km. The area yet to be covered by systematic geological mapping in
Nagaland is 2133 sq km. In Tripura state about 1,280 sq km area remains to be
mapped. The permafrost region and northern inaccessible part of Himalayan belt in
Arunachal Pradesh needs to be mapped with the help of remote sensing techniques.
4.2 The lithostratigraphy of North Eastern Region is not yet very clearly defined and that
is why till today the GSI, NER primarily embarks on tectonostratigraphy. Moreover
there are gaps in information of the compiled geological maps (1:50,000) which need
to be supplemented by additional data to prepare a coherent and seamless degree
sheet wise reconciliation, which ultimately will culminate into catalogue scale
integration. A unified legend and stratigraphy of the NER is being attempted. To
address these delicate issues specialised thematic mapping items will be taken up in
selected areas of NER.
26
4.3 Geochemical mapping brings out the geochemical signatures of elements in the terrain
under natural conditions of the area covered. The data base addresses issues of
identification of the target areas for mineral exploration, environmental problem, soil
fertility, animal and human health, agriculture, forestry, water supply and irrigation,
waste disposal and land use planning. Under NGCM programme, from 2001-2002 to
2008-2009 geochemical mapping has already been accomplished in toposheet nos.
78O/2,6,7,9,10,11,13&14 (8 sheets) in Meghalaya state, in toposheets
83B/3,4,6,7,8,11,12,14 & 15 and 78J/7,8,11 & 12 (13 sheets) in Assam state,
83A/7,8,10,11&12 (5 sheets) in Arunachal Pradesh state, in 84A/9 & 10 (2 sheets) in
Mizoram state, and in 78A/7,8,11&12 (4 sheets) in Sikkim state. These 32 sheets
have been covered in NER so far. The remaining sheets will be covered in future.
Besides, the work is also taken up in Tripura, Manipur and Nagaland.
4.4 Geophysical mapping is envisaged to pursue the goal of preparing gravity-magnetic
maps under the thrust area of activity of the Geological Survey of India. Along with
geophysical mapping it has been planned by GSI to carry out toposheet wise
geochemical mapping so that the geological, geophysical and geochemical maps are
available for each toposheet. This will be helpful to generate a concurrent synthesis
map. The geophysical mapping has been carried out in toposheet nos. 78O/5,9,10,13
and 83B/3,6,4 (part), 7,8,11,12,15 during the F.S. 2003-2004 to 2008-2009. Thus, 11
sheets have been covered by GP mapping while the remaining sheets will be taken up
shortly.
4.5 Out of the 446 toposheets geological maps of 335 sheets have been compiled and
digitized and uploaded to portal, while geological maps for another 18 sheets are
under process of finalisation. However, geological map of 87 sheets (64 sheets of
Arunachal Pradesh, 9 sheets of Meghalaya, 10 sheets of Manipur-Nagaland, 4 sheets
of Tripura- Mizoram) are yet to be compiled because either data is not available or
toposheets on 1:50,000 scale are not available. Most of these sheets fall along the
international borders or cover the inaccessible terrains. There are 41 sheets
(78M/9,15, 78N/1, 78J/1,2,3,4,6,10,13,14, 82D/12,16, 82H/8,12, 82L/5,7,14, 83O/16,
82P/5,6,9, 83A/9,10,13,16, 83E/10, 83H/7,12,16, 83I/9,13,15, 83M/3, 84E/9,13,
91D/7,11,16, and 91H/3,4) for which toposheets on 1:50,000 scale are available but
could not be compiled for want of data. These 41 sheets need to be photogeologically
mapped and compiled on priority. A programme is initiated in XII five year plan to
take up the mapping of these areas with the RSAS input.
4.6 Compilation of District Resource Map (DRM) on scale 1:250,000 has been a thrust
area of activity of GSI for the last one decade or so in view of the growing demand
for such maps from the planners, entrepreneurs, scientists, administrators and NGO’s
across the country, DRMs for 87 districts of NER state (15 districts of Arunachal
Pradesh; 27 districts of Assam; 7 districts of Meghalaya; 9 districts of Manipur; 8
districts of Mizoram; 9 districts of Nagaland; 4 districts of Tripura; and 4 districts of
Sikkim) are to be completed. The work is initiated in Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya
states.
27
4.7 Mapping of the active fault zones and seismically sensitive and earthquake prone
areas in NER for updating the knowledge of geology is proposed as future activity.
Mapping of the landslide prone areas by continuous monitoring of the geological
aspects and taking preventive measures to avoid or minimize the loss of life and
property will be taken on priority. In case of macro-scale landslide hazard zonation
along NH/SH, the following landslide prone NH/SH are yet to be done : NH-39
(Imphal-Moreh), NH-53 (Nungba-Jiribam), NH-44 (Khliehriat-Silchar-Agartala),
NH-52A (Bhalukpong-Bomdila-Dirang-Tawang road), NH-150 (Imphal-Ukhrul-
Jessami), NH-61 (Wakha road), NH-54 (Aizawl-Lunglei), Silchar-Haflong SH,
Diphu-Dimapur road, Roing-Hunli-Anini road, Tezu-Hayuland-Watong road, Tezu-
Pasighat- Along road, Shillong-Nongstoin- Shallang-Rangzeng-Williamnagar-Tura
road, NH-51 (Paikon-Dajengdoba- Tura-Dallu), and NH-62 (Dudsnoi-Williamnagar-
Baghmara-Dallu). Meso-scale landslide hazard zonation on 1:10,000 scale can be
taken up for state capitals, district headquarters and important townships on priority
basis.
4.8 Geoenvironmental studies in coal and limestone mining areas in NER need to be taken
up to render geological assistance for sustainable development of mineral resources
of NER.
4.9 Mapping of major shear zones and characterization of shears is required to locate
possible mineralized zones in such areas by Specialised Thematic Mapping.
4.10 Assessment of potentiality of graphite deposits along with associated minerals of
strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh is proposed in five year plan. Search for
strategic minerals like tin, tungsten, molybdenum, PGE and titanium in geologically
favorable locales in NER – Subduction related intrusives in Ophiolite belts of
Manipur-Nagaland and collision related granitoids in Arunachal Himalayas is
required. Except for sporadic occurrences of sulphides, podiform chromites,
nikeliferous magnetite etc. no major metallic ore deposit has been located in Naga
Ophiolite belt. Inter-disciplinary programmes have to be taken up with the objective
of delineation of the mineralizaed zones in this belt.
4.11 Exploration conducted so far for metallic minerals has revealed only sub-economic
occurrences. Search for metallic mineral resources in the Region has to be given a
new thrust and orientation. Geological set up indicates that Precambrian and Lower
Palaeozoic (?) territories in Meghalaya, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and the Ophiolite
Belt of Nagaland and Manipur are primarily significant for search of metallic
minerals. Certain built-in terrain conditions, e.g., inaccessibility, rugged topography,
deep weathering profile and thick vegetation pose problems in locating metallic
deposits by traditional methods of ore search. In view of these facts, new geochemical
and geophysical methods have to be applied to explore the geologically promising
areas and appropriate exploration strategies have to be evolved to overcome the
geological and terrain constraints. Steps in this direction have been taken up recently.
4.12 Geological and geochemical evaluation studies of Arunachal dolomites are required
for assessing their suitability for industrial use. Coal exploration in gap areas of
28
Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh are to be initiated in the next five year
plan.
4.13 Heliborne surveys for assessing mineralization potential of Ophiolite Belt of Manipur
and Nagaland, and for detection of concealed subduction related granite intrusions
along the India-Burma collision zone is proposed. PGE are known to occur with the
chromite and chromitite bands within the layered ultramafic rocks in Manipur and
Nagaland. In this context, Ophiolite belt of Manipur-Nagaland assumes significance
and needs to be thoroughly searched and explored. PGE exploration requires strong
support of ICP-MS and fire-assay laboratory for pre-concentration. NER needs to be
geared up with these facilities.
4.14 Potentiality of clay deposits of Tripura and studies for sustainable development for
industrial purpose need to be explored. Search for kimberlites / lamproites /
lamprophyres along the intersection of major and minor lineaments in the
Precambrian terrains of Meghalaya require help of Heliborne surveys by RSAS.
4.15 Geological studies of the contact alteration zones around Sung- Jasra-Sampchampi-
Mawpyut ultramafic- alkaline complexes are to be carried out by Specialised
Thematic Mapping.
5. AREAS BEING PRESENTLY EXPLORED
During 2010-2012, GSI, NER has taken up investigation for Coal in Singrimari area,
Assam and Meghalaya, Limestone investigation in Litang Valley with drilling operation.
Investigation for basemetal and REE is intiated in Meghalaya, investigation for PGE in
Manipur and investigation for basemetals in Sikkim is under progress. The Geochemical
mapping programme is taken up in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh Meghalaya, Nagaland,
Tripura and Sikkim states. Specialised thematic mapping to identify mineral occurrences is
taken up in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim states. Besides, seismic
microzonation is taken up in Jorhat town. Landslise hazard zonation of Shillong town and
land slide inventory preparation along national / state highways is also taken up on priority
basis. Preparation of district resource maps for public awareness and utility of entrepreneurs
is taken up in Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura states.
6. FUTURE PLAN/THRUST AREA FOR INVESTIGATION DURING XIITH PLAN
6.1 Limestone: Meghalaya state is endowed with rich deposit of limestone in its western
and southern part and about 8000 mt of limestone has already been proved in Litang
Valley of Jaintia Hills district. Some potential areas are still unexplored. So, exploration
of limestone is the need of the hour, in view of the interest shown by the private
entrepreneurs in this part of the state for setting up mega cement plants.
6.2 Base metal: From the available data of systematic geological mapping the following
two areas are to be taken up for detailed base metal exploration:-
• Around Simsang Dawa (TS no. 78K/9) grab samples of sheared amphibolites
have recorded base metal content with 14-15% Zn, 0.57% Cu and 500-700ppm Pb
29
• South of Chokagiri, in TS no. 78K/6 strains of malachite with primary sulphide
have been reported over a distance of 300m in granodioritic rock.
These two areas can be taken up for Specialised Thematic Mapping on 1:25,000 scale to
locate their extension that will facilitate further exploration.
6.3 Sillimanite: In toposheet no.78O/10, Mairang-Langtor-Nongdong area, a sillimanite
band of low grade extends for about 2 km, in E-W direction with an average thickness of
about 70m. The area is to be explored properly (Khonglah, et al. F.S. 2008-2009).
• In the southern part of toposheet no. 78O/1 near Mawpanblang, floats of
sillimanite have been recorded by DMR, Meghalaya that warrant further study.
• These two areas can be taken up for specialized thematic geological mapping on
1:25,000 scale to locate their extension that will facilitate further exploration.
6.4 Coal: Two areas of exploration of coal are for active consideration:-
• Exploration for tertiary coal in Langrin coal field area, West Khasi hills district,
Meghalaya in collaboration with DMR, Govt. of Meghalaya.
• Exploration for Gondwana coal in Singrimari area, bordering Assam and
Meghalaya is to be taken up in collaboration with DMR/DGMs, Govt. of
Meghalaya/Assam
7. PROPOSALS FOR XIITH AND XIIITH PLAN
In consonance with the thrust areas of activities as stipulated in the Terms of Reference of the
CGPB Committee-VIII the following areas have been identified for taking up assignments
during the XIIth and XIIIth Five Year Plan, in the fields of Natural Hazards, Mapping,
Mineral Exploration and also Capacity Building and training for Geologists of state DGMs
and students and research scholars of Earth Science Institutions of NER. The process of
interaction between GSI and State DGM’s and other Stakeholders will be continued.
Suggestions and specific requests from all the Members of the CGPB Committee-VIII will
be considered, as and when received, while framing future assignments of GSI.
7.1 Proposed work related to geological mapping:
• Mapping of the unmapped portions of Northeastern States.

• Specialised Thematic Mapping of the selected areas to establish lithostratigraphy, and
to fill gap in information in the compiled geological maps.
• Carry out GCM and Geophysical Mapping in the sheets that have not yet been
covered.
• Photogeological mapping and compilation of sheets that have as yet not been
compiled.
7.2 Proposed work related to natural hazards:
• Monitoring of active landslide areas along the National Highways in NER and
rendering geotechnical advice in working out the required mitigation measures.
30
• Mapping of the active fault zones continuously and updating the knowledge of
Geology and structure of seismically sensitive and Earthquake prone areas in NER
• Structural Mapping of the landslide prone areas by continuous monitoring of the
Geology and structure of such areas and take preventive measures to avoid or
minimize the loss of life and property.
• Mapping of major shear zones and characterisation of shears along with efforts to
locate possible mineralized zones in such areas by Specialised Thematic Mapping.
7.3 Proposed work related to environmental problems

• Glaciological studies recommended in Sikkim and Arunachal Himalayas are
proposed to be continued in the XIIth plan period also. These studies include the
updating of glacial inventory in Sikkim and Arunachal Himalayas as also the
monitoring/front fluctuation studies of some of the important glaciers.
• Geoenvironmental studies in and around the major cities of Northeastern Region to
assess the degree of pollution caused by unplanned industrial growth.
• Geoenvironmental studies in coal and limestone mining areas in NER and render
geological assistance for Sustainable Development of mineral resources of NER
• Geoenvironmnetal appraisal of Lokatak lake, Imphal for preservation of ecology and
to reduce environmental degradation.
7.4 Proposed work related to mineral exploration:
• Investigation for strategic minerals in the Tertiary granites within Central Crystalline
Gneissic Complex of Sikkim Himalayas
• Regional surveys for bedded phosphorites in the Buxa limestone/dolomite
(stromatolitic) horizons of Daling Group of unclassified Proterozoics of South and
West Sikkim.
• Assessment of potentiality of graphite deposits along with associated minerals of
strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Search for strategic minerals like Tin, Tungsten, Molybdenum and titanium in
geologically favorable areas in NER – Subduction related intrusives in Ophiolite belts
of Manipur-Nagaland and collision related granitoids in Arunachal Himalayas
• R&D studies of Arunachal dolomites and assessing their suitability for industrial use
by geological and geochemical evaluation
• Coal exploration in gap areas in Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Potentiality of clay deposits of Tripura and studies for sustainable development for
industrial purpose.
• Search for kimberlites / lamproites / lamprophyres along the intersection of major and
minor lineaments in the Precambrian terrains of Meghalaya – Proposed Heliborne
surveys by RSAS.
• Geological studies of the contact alteration zones around Sung-Jasra- Sampchampi-
Mawpyut ultramafic-alkaline complexes by Specialised Thematic Mapping
31
• Helicopter surveys by RSAS for detection of concealed subduction related granite
intrusions along the India-Burma collision zone.
7.5 Proposed work related to geotechnical investigations:
• GSI will continue to provide geotechnical consultancy services to various government

and non-government organizations for successful planning, designing and execution
of the engineering projects of hydro power, irrigation, water supply, communication
(highways, railways, tunnels and bridges) and urban development, right from
preliminary to construction and post construction stage.
7.6 Collaborative works with state DGM’s

• There is an acute shortage of trained manpower with the State DGM’s as well as GSI
in the NER. Officers of the State DGM’s are more tuned to work in the inaccessible
and rugged terrains, and are more familiar with the local-political problems of the
respective state. Therefore, projects need to be taken up in collaborative and
manpower sharing basis so as to combine the experience of GSI officers with the
local support of State DGMs to ensure successful completion of the assignments
taken up. Therefore a sincere co-operation from various State Governments of the
region with support of local authorities is essential to ensure availability of all
possible help and facilities to the scientists for effective implementation of the
projects.
• GSI will continue to provide free training to the Officials of State DGMs at Regional
Training Institute, Shillong and at its Field Training Centre, Aizawl. Specific training
needs of the respective State DGMs will be given due weightage.
• Identification of geologically significant areas for declaration as National Geological
Monuments.
• Development and promotion of Geotourism in NER with an aim to inculcate
awareness of Geological aspects of Geotourism spots and Geoparks to the visitors.
• Setting up a Natural History Museum with geological inputs.
7.7 Activities of Regional Training Institute, Shillong
GSI training institute organizes Region specific training programmes in NER for capacity
building. The main training courses designed for DGM of NER States are-
 GIS specific training.
 Seismic microzonation training.
 Active fault mapping techniques.
 Training on petrographic techniques for university students.
 Training for use of total stations.
 Specific trainings on request viz. use of digital total stations in surveying, drilling
techniques.
32

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA

BASE DOCUMENT OF CGPB COMMITTEE VIII GEOLOGY AND MINERAL

2. GEOLOGY OF NORTH EASTERN REGION 1

2.3 Precambrian-Paleozoic rocks of Arunachal Pradesh 1

2.4 Arunachal Himalayas 1

2.5 Lower Gondwana Group 3

2.6 Cretaceous Alkaline- Carbonatite Complexes of Northeast India NER 4

2.7 Mesozoic volcanics of Northeast 4

2.8 Late Mesozoic Ophiolites of Northeast 4

2.9 Ophiolite Suite of Nagaland 4

2.10 Ophiolite Suite of Manipur 4

2.11 Cretaceous sediments of Meghalaya 5

2.12 Tertiary of Northeast India 5

2.13 Jaintia Group of Meghalaya and Assam 5

2.14 Disang Group 5

2.15 Barail Group 5

2.16 Surma Group 5

2.17 Garo Group of Meghalaya 6

2.18 Tipam Group 6

2.20 Dihing Group 7

2.21 Quaternary Sediments 7

2.22 Recent deposits 7

2.23 Geology of Sikkim Himalayas 7

3. MINERAL RESOURCES OF NORTHEASTERN REGION 8

3.1 Mineral Resources of Assam 8

3.2 Mineral Resources of Meghalaya 12

3.3 Mineral resources of Arunachal Pradesh 15

3.4 Mineral Resources of Nagaland 18

3.5 Mineral resources of Mizoram 19

3.6 Mineral resources of Tripura 19

3.7 Mineral resources of Manipur 21

3.8 Mineral resources of Sikkim 22

4. GAP AREAS IN RESPECT OF GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES 23

5. AREAS BEING PRESENTLY EXPLORED 26

6. FUTURE PLAN/THRUST AREA FOR INVESTIGATION DURING XIITH PLAN 26

7. PROPOSALS FOR XIITH AND XIIITH PLAN 27

7.1 Proposed work related to geological mapping: 27

7.2 Proposed work related to natural hazards: 27

7.3 Proposed work related to environmental problems 28

7.4 Proposed work related to mineral exploration: 28

7.5 Proposed work related to geotechnical investigations: 29

7.6 Collaborative works with state DGM’s 29

7.7 Activities of Regional Training Institute, Shillong 29

Geological and Mineral Map of North East India

2.3 Precambrian-Paleozoic rocks of Arunachal Pradesh: The Bomdila Group of rocks

Table-1 STRATIGRAPHIC SET UP OF NORTHEAST INDIA

Bokabil Formation Shale, sandy Shale, siltstone, mudstone

Kopili Formation Shale, sandstone and marl.

2.6.1 Samchampi Alkaline complex of Assam: Samchampi Complex in Assam is emplaced

2.6.2 Sung valley Alkaline-Ultramafic-Carbonatite Complex: A large Alkaline-

2.11 Cretaceous sediments of Meghalaya: The Cretaceous sediments exposed in the

2.21 Quaternary Sediments: Quaternary sediments in Northeast are mainly confined to

2.23 Geology of Sikkim Himalayas: Sikkim is mostly covered by Precambrian

3. MINERAL RESOURCES OF NORTHEASTERN REGION

3.1 Mineral Resources of Assam

3.1.3 Limestone: Thick deposits of limestone, belonging to Shella Formation of Jaintia

3.1.8 Radioactive minerals: In Bargaon, Donkamokam and Teragaon (Karbi-Anglong

3.1.11 Hot springs:

Mineral Unit Reserves Remaining resources Total

Table-2A Resources of Coal as on 01-04-2009 : Assam (in Million tonnes)

3.2. Mineral Resources of Meghalaya

Mineral Unit Reserves Remaining resources Total Resources