Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy urges GSI to accelerate mineral exploration

Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy has called upon the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to expedite the process of mineral exploration and adopt modern technology. He made these remarks after inaugurating three new facilities, including an International Hostel Complex, an Advanced Geophysical Data Processing Laboratory, and a ‘Karmayogi’ Digital Studio, at the GSI campus in Hyderabad.

The Minister stated that 300 critical mineral projects are being undertaken during the financial year 2026-27 under the National Critical Minerals Mission. Emphasising the Central Government's focus on mineral security, he noted that a total of 4,373 mineral exploration projects have been completed from 2014 to date. Among these, 1,724 projects were related to critical minerals and 656 projects were linked to rare earth elements.

G. Kishan Reddy observed that India's mining sector is expanding rapidly and achieving global standards. However, he suggested that GSI should enhance its international presence and capabilities by actively collaborating with geological and exploration agencies worldwide. He instructed the organisation to prepare a comprehensive strategy with clear priorities, timelines, and state-specific action plans.

The Minister specifically emphasised the need to identify dispute-free government lands and focus on regions with significant potential for critical minerals. He highlighted the importance of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Remote Sensing, and Advanced Data Analytics in mineral exploration. Additionally, he proposed continuous training for scientists and technical staff and the development of the GSI Training Institute as a 'Centre of Excellence' for geological training and capacity building.

Congratulating the GSI team, he said that this 176-year-old institution and the GSI Training Institute, which has completed 50 years, should become more modern, efficient, and future-ready organisations based on their rich geological and geophysical legacy. On this occasion, Member of Parliament from Malkajgiri, Etala Rajender, also stated via a press release that there is a need to explore coal and various other underground minerals using modern and state-of-the-art technology.

According to a report by The Hindu, the Minister clarified that strengthening international cooperation and adopting cutting-edge technology is inevitable to meet the growing demand for critical minerals in the country.