Kolkata, March 4, 2025

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) celebrated its 175th Foundation Day with a grand ceremony at its Central Headquarters in the city. Shri G. Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister for Coal & Mines, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and inaugurated the event with a series of activities highlighting GSI’s legacy and contributions to the nation. The programme was graced by Shri P. M. Prasad, CMD, Coal India Ltd, Shri Ghanashyam Sharma, CMD, Hindustan Copper limited, Ms. Yashodhara Ray Chaudhuri, Additional Deputy C&AG (Mines), Shri A. D. Chaudhary, Director, Indian Museum, besides Shri Asit Saha, Director General, GSI,  Dr. Joydeep Guha, ADG & HoD, GSI, Dr. Joyesh Bagchi, ADG (PSS), GSI, other senior officials and retired GSI employees.

 

The celebration commenced with the Union Minister planting a sapling, symbolising sustainability and GSI's commitment to environmental conservation. This was followed by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque to mark the 175th year of GSI’s illustrious journey. Shri Reddy then visited the Map Gallery, various exhibitions, and stalls showcasing GSI’s achievements, including a working model of a drilling rig, an art exhibition, and displays on GSI’s mineral exploration and research activities. The Union Minister also appreciated the stalls of Coal India Limited, Hindustan Copper limited, Esri India, Datacode, IIT-ISM, Jadavpur University and Presidency University.

In his address, Shri Reddy lauded GSI’s pivotal role in the exploration and assessment of mineral resources and its contributions to national development. He emphasised the significance of GSI's efforts in critical mineral exploration and landslide risk management, especially in the context of India’s growing focus on self-reliance in mineral resources contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Key highlights of the event included the release of a video on GSI’s 175-year journey, the launch of a special publication on ‘Gondwana Basins on the Indian sub-continent’, and the unveiling of a special cover by India Post to commemorate the occasion. The Union Minister also launched two new digital initiatives — a Field Data Acquisition App and the Geo-heritage App ‘Bhuvirasat’, aimed at enhancing data collection and promoting geo-heritage awareness.

Additionally, GSI handed over ‘Regional Mineral Targeting’ projects to notified private exploration agencies, a step expected to accelerate mineral exploration through public-private collaboration. A presentation on “Critical Mineral Exploration Strategy” by Dr. Joyesh Bagchi, ADG (PSS), GSI, further highlighted GSI’s strategic roadmap for securing critical minerals vital for India’s green energy transition.

The ceremony also included award distributions for winners of various drawing competitions, organised to inspire young minds towards geosciences. A technical session in the afternoon featured a lecture by Prof. Dhrubajyoti Mukhopadhyay, FNA, FNASc, on the evolution of geosciences in India, followed by a debate competition for university students.

Eminent ex-GSI scientists shared insightful reminiscences, reflecting on GSI’s remarkable legacy and its vision for the future. Their experiences highlighted the organization’s pivotal contributions to India’s geo-scientific advancements. A debate competition on “Harnessing Natural Resources While Protecting the Environment” ignited vibrant discussions, with students presenting innovative ideas on balancing development and conservation. The event concluded on a celebratory note with the Director General, GSI, felicitating outstanding employees with ‘Certificates of Appreciation’ in recognition of their exemplary service and commitment.

The 175th Foundation Day celebrations not only highlighted GSI’s contributions to mineral exploration and geosciences but also showcased its forward-looking approach through digital transformations and strategic collaborations.

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SSS/4.3.25/....

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