On the basis of the status of development resources can be classified into four types:
(i) Potential resources
(ii) Developed resources
(iii) Stock resources
(iv) Reserves resources
(i) Potential resources: Potential resources are those resources which are found in the region but have not been used.
For example: the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan have tremendous potential for the development of solar energy, but it has not been fully used till yet.
(ii) Developed resources: These include resources which are surveyed and their quality and quantity have been determined for utilization.
For example: coal, iron, manganese, etc.
(iii) Stock resources: Materials in the environment which have the potential to satisfy human needs but human beings do not have the appropriate technology to access them are called stock.
For example: geothermal energy.
(iv) Reserves resources: Resources which can be put into use with the help of existing technical ‘know-how’ but their use has not been started. These can be used for meeting future requirements.
For example: water in dams, forests, etc.
