Which among the following States of India, has the highest amount of coal reserves?

Among the given options, Orissa (Odisha) possesses the highest amount of coal reserves. According to geological data, Odisha accounts for approximately 24.52% to 25.1% of India's total coal reserves, with significant deposits in the Talcher and Rampur-Himgir coalfields [2][t1][t3]. Jharkhand holds the overall first rank in India, but it is not listed in the options [2]. Following Odisha in the provided list, West Bengal holds about 10.05% to 11% of the national reserves, primarily in the Raniganj coalfield [2][t1][t3]. Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh have significantly lower reserves, with Maharashtra holding roughly 3% and Andhra Pradesh (undivided) holding a minor fraction compared to the major coal-bearing states [2][t1]. Therefore, Orissa is the correct choice as the state with the highest reserves among the four options provided.

Sources

1. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 8: Energy Resources > Coal Reserves in India 2017–18 > p. 2
2. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 8: Energy Resources > Source: Provisional Coal Statistics 2016–17, Coal Controller's Organization, Kolkata. > p. 3