Which one of the following is the appropriate reason to considering the Gondwana rocks as most important of rock systems of India?

Correct Option

The Gondwana rock system is considered the most important rock system in India primarily due to its vast coal reserves. These formations account for over 90% of India's total coal reserves. Dating back primarily to the Carboniferous and Permian periods, these sedimentary basins are the principal source of bituminous and sub-bituminous coal, essential for thermal power generation. Significant coalfields are found in regions such as the Damodar Valley (Jharkhand, West Bengal), Son-Mahanadi Valley, and Godavari Valley.

Incorrect Options

Option (a): Limestone reserves are predominantly associated with the Vindhyan rock system, not the Gondwana system.

Option (c): Black cotton soils, also known as Regur, are primarily formed from the weathering of basaltic rocks of the Deccan Traps, not the Gondwana formations.

Option (d): As option (b) provides a valid and appropriate reason for the importance of Gondwana rocks, this option is incorrect.