Q. In which one of the following districts, have large reserves of diamond-bearing kimberlite been discovered in the recent past? (UPSC Prelims 2007)
Answer: Raipur
Notes: Large reserves of diamond-bearing kimberlite pipes have been discovered in the Raipur district of Chhattisgarh, particularly in the Sonakhan area near Raipur. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) identified 42 kimberlite clusters in Raipur and surrounding regions in the Bastar Craton during explorations in the 2000s and 2010s. These are G9-type kimberlites with diamond potential, confirmed by microdiamond finds. Recent discoveries from 2006 to 2012 by Rio Tinto and GSI highlight Raipur as a significant diamond exploration site in India, unlike the other districts which lack such reserves.