While Goa is well known for its manganese and low grade iron ore reserves, the draft mineral policy argues that Goa's geological landscape looked promising when it came to mining for quartz, basalt, granite, chromite and soapstone.

The draft mineral policy also advocates integration of environmental management in the process of mining and development of mining resources.

'The mining industry in Goa has contributed immensely to the economic development of the state, but in its wake has also caused certain environmental degradation which needs to be addressed,' the policy states in its preamble.

'It is vital to formulate a policy for the excavation of mineral resources of the state keeping in mind not only sustainable development - environmental protection - but also scientific mining leading to reduction of mining wastes, mineral conservation and infrastructural development,' it adds.

Goa's current mining output largely comprises 33 million tonnes of low grade iron ore, which is exported primarily to China and Japan, apart from smaller quantities of bauxite and manganese.