Indian Geography — North-Eastern Zone: Key Mineral Resources Which option best identifies the major mineral resources associated with India’s north-eastern region (Assam and adjoining areas) at a general-studies level?

Introduction / Context:
India’s north-eastern zone (notably Assam, parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Tripura, and adjoining areas) is frequently highlighted for hydrocarbons. General-studies examinations usually test whether you can identify crude petroleum and natural gas as the standout resources from this region, rather than metallic ores more typical of other belts.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The focus is on broad, widely taught resources, not a complete inventory.
• “North-eastern zone” refers to the petroleum-rich sedimentary basins around Assam and nearby states.
• We compare options mixing hydrocarbons with metals and gems.

Concept / Approach:
Sedimentary basins in the north-east (e.g., Assam–Arakan) have long been known for oil and natural gas. While coal and other minerals occur in pockets, popular exam summaries emphasize crude petroleum and natural gas as the region’s defining resources, distinguishing it from central and eastern India’s metallic mineral belts.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard geography texts and exam primers associate the north-east with onshore oilfields and gas (e.g., Digboi legacy), reinforcing the hydrocarbon identity.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Mixed metallic sets: These better describe other belts; they are not the classic north-east hallmark.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming every Indian region is best known for iron or manganese. The north-east’s exam-relevant identity centers on petroleum and natural gas.

Final Answer:
crude Petroleum and natural gas