The Chota Nagpur Plateau is geologically distinct from intermontane types. While the Mexican, Tibetan and Bolivian plateaus were formed alongside mountain belts (orogenic belts), Chota Nagpur is part of the stable Indian Peninsular shield. It is a “continental plateau” that has risen as a single unit or has been left standing after the surrounding land eroded. It is geographically famous as the “Mineral Heart of India,” containing vast deposits of iron, coal and mica. In contrast, intermontane plateaus are generally higher, younger and strictly enclosed by fold mountain chains.