Application of Gold Ore Tailings (GOT) as a source of micronutrients for the growth of plants

Abstract

Plants require sixteen nutrients that include both macro and micronutrients. Along with macronutrients N, P, K, micronutrients Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, S etc., play a vital role not only for the healthy growth of the plants but also in the increased yield of the produce. Many factors like the quality and composition of the soil, the types of the fertilizers used and supply of micronutrients decide the growth of the plant and the yield of the commercial crops. It is an established fact that Mining wastes all over the world are found to contain un-extracted metals and non-metals present in the residue. Such residues are known as Ore Tailings and have been used as a best source of micronutrients. Karnataka state is rich in terms of mineral wealth. Hutti Gold Mine of Raichur district of Karnataka state is the leading Gold producer of India. On the lines of COT (Copper Ore Tailings), present research work focuses on the use of GOT (Gold Ore Tailings) as a source of micronutrients.  The present innovative research work, once becomes successful will be certainly a boon to the farmers, helps in the judicious use of thousands of tons of GOT as a source of micronutrients and further for the safe disposal of the left over residue in an environment friendly way not only in our country but also elsewhere in the world.