D — Ferrous minerals
Ferrous minerals include iron ore, manganese, and chromite. They contain iron and account for about three-fourths of the total value of production of metallic minerals in India.
The question tests knowledge of mineral classification. "Ferrous" means iron-containing; ferrous minerals are those that contain iron (like iron ore) or are smelted using iron/steel as a base (like manganese, chromite, nickel, cobalt). Non-ferrous minerals like copper, bauxite, and gold do not contain iron. Examiners expect the direct option D plus a brief supporting definition to show understanding.