Manganese

News: A study conducted by Mahavir Cancer Sansthan, Bihar has found that manganese contamination of water is leading to cancer in the Gangetic plains of Bihar. 

About Manganese 

• It is a hard, brittle, silvery metal that is usually found in combination with iron, not as a free element in nature. 
• The two common types of manganese ore are Pyrolusite and Psilomelane. 
• India is the fifth largest producer of manganese in the world after China, Gabon, South Africa, and Australia. 
• Manganese deposits occur in almost all geological formations, though they are mainly associated with Dharwar System. 
• Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha are the leading manganese producing states. 
• States with highest reserves of manganese are Odisha (44%), Karnataka (22%), Madhya Pradesh (12%).
• Uses: It is an important raw material for smelting iron ore. 
  • It is also used for manufacturing ferro alloys, bleaching powder, insecticides and paints.