Beach Sand Minerals (BSM)

Why in the News

• The Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD) under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has identified significant resources of Beach Sand Minerals (BSM) in coastal and red (teri) sand deposits across several Indian states.
• Additionally, the Union Budget 2026 announced plans to establish Rare Earth corridors in mineral-rich coastal states to promote mining, processing, and manufacturing.

Locations of Beach Sand Mineral Deposits: BSM deposits have been identified in coastal and red sand areas of: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal and Jharkhand.

What are Beach Sand Minerals (BSM)?

Beach Sand Minerals are heavy minerals concentrated in coastal sands due to wave and wind action. Major BSM in India: Ilmenite, Rutile, Leucoxene, Zircon, Garnet, Sillimanite and Monazite.

Importance of Monazite

• Monazite is a rare earth-bearing mineral found in association with other beach sand minerals.
• It contains thorium and rare earth elements, making it important for nuclear energy and advanced technologies.
• Due to its radioactive nature, extraction and processing are complex, expensive, and tightly regulated.

Regulation of Monazite Mining

• Mining is conducted according to plans approved by the Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research.
• Operations must follow limits set by various statutory regulatory bodies due to radiation safety concerns.

Rare Earth Corridors (Budget 2026 Announcement)

The government plans to develop Rare Earth corridors in key coastal states:

• Odisha
• Kerala
• Andhra Pradesh
• Tamil Nadu

These corridors will focus on:

• Mining and extraction
• Processing of rare earth minerals
• Research and development
• Manufacturing of high-tech products

Significance

• Strengthens India’s rare earth mineral supply chain.
• Supports sectors like electronics, renewable energy, defence, and nuclear power.
• Promotes coastal economic development and mineral-based industries.
• Reduces dependence on rare earth imports.

Source: PIB