Question

Direction - For the below Assertion [As] and Reason [R], choose the correct alternative-
Assertion [As] : In India, approximately 98% of the total coal production is obtained from the Gondwana coalfields.
Reason [R] : This coalfield is found extensively distributed across the river valleys of peninsular India.

• A. Both [As] and [R] are true, and [R] is the correct explanation of [As].
• B. Both [As] and [R] are true, but [R] is not the correct explanation of [As].
• C. [As] is true, but [R] is false.
• D. [As] is false, but [R] is true.

Hint:

Gondwana coal = old + high quality + peninsular river basins, while Tertiary coal = younger + limited + northeastern India.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: Coal in India is mainly classified into two geological groups:

Gondwana coalfields (older, Carboniferous–Permian period) and

Tertiary coalfields (younger deposits). Gondwana coal is the most important source of commercial coal in India due to its abundance, quality, and wide distribution in structurally stable peninsular regions.

Step 1: Verifying the Assertion The Gondwana coalfields account for about

98% of India’s total coal production. These coalfields are the backbone of India’s energy sector, supplying most of the coal used in thermal power plants and industries. Hence, the Assertion is

true.

Step 2: Verifying the Reason Gondwana coal deposits are widely distributed in the river valley basins of peninsular India such as:

• Damodar valley (Jharkhand–West Bengal)

• Mahanadi valley (Odisha)

• Godavari valley (Telangana–Andhra Pradesh)

• Wardha valley (Maharashtra)
These basins are structurally stable and rich in ancient plant deposits, making the Reason also

true.

Step 3: Establishing the relationship The reason correctly explains the assertion because the extensive distribution of Gondwana coal across major river valleys of peninsular India led to large-scale accumulation of coal-forming vegetation in ancient geological times. This geological setting explains why most of India’s coal production comes from these fields. Therefore, both statements are true and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.