Kishan Reddy inaugurates three major facilities at GSI Training Institute in Hyderabad
Hyderabad, Nov 10 (TNT): Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy on Tuesday inaugurated three major facilities at the Geological Survey of India Training Institute (GSITI) at Bandlaguda-Nagole here, aimed at strengthening advanced geoscientific training, mineral exploration and international cooperation.
The newly inaugurated facilities include an International Hostel named Nalanda and Takshashila, an Advanced Geophysical Data Processing Laboratory and a Digital Studio.
Addressing the gathering, Kishan Reddy stressed the need to accelerate exploration of critical minerals and rare-earth elements to strengthen India’s mineral security and reduce dependence on other countries.
He called upon the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to intensify exploration in areas with potential critical mineral deposits and deploy dedicated teams to expedite exploration and ensure timely preparation and auction of mineral blocks.
Referring to exploration activities in different parts of the country, including the Siwana Ring Complex in Rajasthan, he emphasised the need to strengthen exploration of heavy rare-earth elements and other critical minerals in view of their growing strategic importance.
Highlighting GSI’s 176-year legacy, the Minister said the minerals and mining sector would play a crucial role in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation. He underscored the importance of the National Critical Mineral Mission, adoption of advanced technologies, institutional reforms and international cooperation to enhance exploration and research capabilities.
He also called for stronger collaboration with national and international universities and institutions, upgrading training infrastructure to global standards and making geological data more accessible through open platforms.
Referring to India’s energy requirements, he stressed the need to maintain adequate coal production, noting the significant contribution of coal-based thermal power to the country’s electricity needs.
Malkajgiri MP Eatala Rajender said scientific research, technological advancement and innovation were essential for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat.
He called for effective exploration and utilisation of India’s mineral resources and adoption of advanced technologies to strengthen the country’s global competitiveness.
He urged GSITI scientists, researchers and faculty to intensify research activities and contribute to national development.
The International Hostel, constructed at a cost of Rs 4.27 crore, has 32 fully furnished suites with modern amenities, including dining, recreation, gymnasium, mini-library and laundry facilities. It is intended to accommodate international trainees and promote cultural exchange and professional interaction.
The Advanced Geophysical Data Processing Laboratory, established with an investment of Rs 4.55 crore through the National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust (NMEDT) and GSI, is equipped with 25 high-end computer systems and specialised software for data processing, modelling, inversion and interpretation.
The Digital Studio, set up at a cost of Rs 30 lakh with support from the Capacity Building Commission and GSI, will facilitate the production of digital learning resources such as video lectures, podcasts and webinars for the iGOT Karmayogi portal under Mission Karmayogi.
GSI Director General Dinesh V. Ganvir, Ministry of Mines Joint Secretary Farida M. Naik and other senior officials participated in the programme.
TNT TS
