Indian Minerals — Himalayan Mica Belt Within the Himalayan mica belt, the major part of India’s production has traditionally been situated in which state (historic usage)?

Introduction / Context:
India has long been known for mica deposits, historically concentrated in the Bihar–Jharkhand belt (often referred to as part of the Himalayan mica belt in older texts). Examinations based on classic geography sources expect recognition of “Bihar” as the traditional answer, even though administrative boundaries and production profiles have evolved over time.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Historic textbook framing is used.
• Mica occurrences align with pegmatite belts associated with older crustal rocks.
• Question asks for the state traditionally cited in exams.

Concept / Approach:
Older school/competitive exam materials often highlight the Bihar mica belt (including areas that are now in Jharkhand) as India’s prime mica-producing region. While other states have mica and sheet mica processing, the classic association remains with Bihar in traditional questions.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Legacy geography texts and earlier statistical yearbooks consistently cite the Bihar belt as the traditional mica heartland.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Andhra Pradesh/Rajasthan/West Bengal: While occurrences exist, they are not the historically dominant association in school-level answers.

Common Pitfalls:
Applying present-day administrative names without noting older exam phrasing. When in doubt, follow the classic mapping used by the question bank.

Final Answer:
Bihar