Hyderabad: On Monday, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy announced that India is stepping into a new phase where science, sustainability, and technology are key in discovering minerals.
At the “Next-Gen Geophysics 2025: Unlocking Earth’s Hidden Treasures” conference held at the Geological Survey of India Training Institute in Bandlaguda-Nagole, Kishan Reddy emphasized geophysics’ crucial role in reaching the goals of a developed India, or Viksit Bharat. He mentioned how it provides innovative solutions to issues like climate change, urban growth, and disaster management.
The Minister praised the Geological Survey of India (GSI) for hosting this conference during its 175th anniversary, highlighting India’s long-term dedication to exploring natural resources scientifically.
Kishan Reddy talked about significant developments like the National Landslide Forecasting Centre and a recent agreement with Italy to improve disaster readiness. He urged expanding monitoring systems and using advanced forecasting methods.
He pointed out India’s increasing role in global education and research, with a 318% rise in Indian institutions in the QS World University Rankings 2025. He also noted the doubling of IIT seats and the creation of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) as proof of the government’s focus on scientific progress.
The Minister encouraged geoscientists to adopt new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing for better exploration and precise seismic data analysis. He mentioned initiatives such as the Rs 10,300 crore India AI Mission and the Rs 6,000 crore National Quantum Mission as innovation drivers.
He stressed the strategic importance of key minerals to India’s future economy and the need to reduce reliance on imports of minerals like lithium and cobalt through AI-driven exploration methods. He advocated for collaboration and sustainability, suggesting partnerships between the government, academia, and industry. The Mineral Exploration Hackathon was highlighted as a successful model for co-creation. Responsible mining practices that benefit local communities and protect the environment were also emphasized.
Eatala Rajender noted that geoscience is entering a transformative period where traditional methods merge with AI-based predictive models and quantum sensing. This shift will revolutionize resource exploration and support the development of a future-ready Viksit Bharat. He highlighted the importance of geoscientific research in tackling issues related to mineral security, environmental resilience, and disaster preparedness.
Rajender praised GSI’s use of AI and Machine Learning in assessing geohazards and mineral investigations, expressing confidence in India’s potential to lead in data-driven exploration and sustainable resource management.
Earlier, Kishan Reddy and Eatala Rajender inaugurated two new Hydrostatic Drill Rigs at the GSI, alongside officials like Dr. S Ravi and Asit Saha. This marked a major step in India’s geoscientific capabilities. They also opened the Next-Gen Geophysics Expo Pavilion, which features advanced geophysical tools and AI-enabled exploration models. The pavilion includes live demonstrations of frontier technologies aiding India’s sustainable development goals.
The two-day event brought together top geoscientists, researchers, and industry leaders from countries such as Australia, Canada, Russia, the USA, Poland, Malaysia, and Singapore. Discussions focused on advanced geophysical technologies, AI/ML-integrated exploration models, high-resolution subsurface imaging, and data-driven mineral targeting.
