Metallogeny vis-à-vis Proterozoic Tectonics of the Central Indian Tectonic Zone (CITZ): An Overview

This work presents a synthesis of mineral deposits formed during the evolution of the Central Indian Tectonic Zone (CITZ). The CITZ is situated between the Bundelkhand and Bastar cratons, representing a major Proterozoic orogenic suture that preserves a complex record of tectonic, magmatic, metamorphic, and metallogenic (M3) events during the ~2.4–0.9 Ga period. The CITZ encompasses a diverse tectonic belt, represented by the Mahakoshal in the north, the Betul in the central sector, and the Sausar belt in the south. The tectonic evolution of the CITZ records a protracted history of intraplate magmatism, rifting, oceanic crust generation, arc-back-arc development, and continental-margin accretion, and culminated with the final collision of the two Archean cratons of Peninsular India. This convergence-driven evolution (2.1–1.6 Ga) is reflected in distinct mineralization events that define the metallogeny of the CITZ. The earliest metallogenic phase is marked by Fe-graphite-orogenic gold mineralization in the Mahakoshal belt and graphite in the Betul belt, linked to the initial collision of the Bundelkhand and Bastar cratons (1.95–1.80 Ga). Subsequently, volcanogenic massive sulfide (Zn–Pb ± Cu) deposits were formed during 1.80–1.70 Ga in the Betul belt, associated with multiple stages of arc-rifting. The Sausar belt evolved into a world-class manganese metallogenic province, reflecting basin-scale sedimentary and diagenetic processes operating during the Paleoproterozoic and Neoproterozoic. The waning stages of intraoceanic arc development were accompanied by emplacement of voluminous mafic–ultramafic flows and sills, hosting Ni–Cu–PGE prospects at Padhar complex in the Betul belt. Later, the phase is associated with alkali magmatism, which led to REE mineralization.