This move follows the recent approval of the National Critical Mineral Mission by the Union Cabinet.Reclassification is based on recommendations from an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by Dr. V. K. Saraswat.

• A mineral is a natural substance of organic or inorganic origin with definite chemical and physical properties.

Reason for reclassification

• Quartz, Felspar and Mica are found in pegmatite rocks, which are an important source of many critical minerals.
  • Previously, when lease was granted as minor minerals, associated critical minerals were not reported or extracted.
  • These minerals have vital roles in various new technologies, in energy transition, spacecraft industries, healthcare sector, etc.
• Baryte often occurs as concretions and vein fillings in limestone and dolostone. 
  • It is found in association with ores of Antimony, Cobalt, Copper, Lead, Manganese and Silver.
  • It has various industrial applications which is used for oil and gas drilling, electronics, TV screens, rubber, glass, ceramics, paint, radiation shielding and medical applications.
• Once categorized as major minerals, there would be an increase in exploration and scientific mining of these minerals which are an important source of many critical minerals.