This document discusses mineral resources, their uses, and the environmental effects of extracting and using minerals. It defines minerals and ores, describes major uses of minerals in industry and construction. It classifies minerals as metallic and non-metallic, provides examples of each, and lists their major distribution areas in India. The document notes that while mineral resources themselves are not limited, environmental concerns arise from impacts of extraction, processing, mining, and smelting. It provides examples of major Indian mines known for environmental problems.