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 Contamination
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.
Q. With reference to the National Rural Health Mission, which of the following are the jobs of ‘ASHA’, a trained community health worker? (2012)
- Accompanying women to the health facility for antenatal care checkup
- Using pregnancy test kits for early detection of pregnancy
- Providing information on nutrition and immunisation.
- Conducting the delivery of baby
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
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