The Geological Survey of India (GSI) marked its 174th Foundation Day on March 4th, 2024, with a nationwide celebration that resonated with the organization’s rich history and unwavering commitment to serving the nation.
The festivities commenced at the GSI’s Central Headquarters in Kolkata with a ceremonial lamp lighting by Shri Janardan Prasad, the Director General. The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. M. K. Mukhopadhyay, a former GSI Director General, and Dr. Joydeep Guha, the Additional Director General. This gathering served not only as a celebration but also as a powerful symbol of continuity, connecting the organization’s present endeavours with the remarkable contributions of its past leaders.
Following the inauguration, a heartfelt tribute was paid to the organization’s founding fathers, Dr. Thomas Oldham and Dr. M. S. Krishnan, with the garlanding of their portraits. This tradition underscores GSI’s continued dedication to its legacy, which emphasizes the crucial role of geological exploration in national development.
A captivating exhibition of rocks, minerals, and fossils was also inaugurated, drawing enthusiastic student participation from colleges across Kolkata and its suburbs. This initiative aimed to spark curiosity and ignite an interest in geoscience among young minds. By fostering a passion for scientific exploration at a young age, the GSI is investing in the future of the field and potentially inspiring the next generation of geological leaders.
In his opening address, Dr Joydeep Guha highlighted GSI’s pivotal role in the development of India’s mineral exploration and geoscientific knowledge base since its inception.
Building upon this legacy, Shri Janardan Prasad, the Director General, addressed the gathering, emphasizing not only GSI’s illustrious 174-year history and indispensable contributions to national mineral resource exploration but also its ongoing commitment to achieving self-reliance in mineral resources. He delved into the organization’s advancements in utilizing cutting-edge technologies like advanced probing techniques, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and fostering collaboration with national and international agencies. These advancements position the GSI as a leader in efficient and sustainable resource exploration practices.
Furthermore, he commended the organization’s crucial work in the realm of geohazard management and early warning systems, underscoring its commitment to public safety and disaster preparedness. He expressed his sincere gratitude to both past and present employees for their dedication and contributions to GSI’s success, recognizing their role in shaping the organization’s remarkable journey.
Dr. M. K. Mukhopadhyay, the Chief Guest and former Director General, shared valuable insights gleaned from his extensive career experiences. He emphasized the multifaceted nature of a geologist’s work, encompassing both rigorous fieldwork and high-level policy discussions. He urged the GSI community to strive for continued excellence and encouraged policymakers to leverage the organization’s expertise in mitigating natural disasters. This call to action serves as a bridge between the vast knowledge base of experienced professionals and the critical decision-making processes that shape the future of the nation.
The event also witnessed the launch of the latest issue of the Indian Journal of Geoscience, featuring recent advancements and research findings in the field. This publication serves as a vital platform for knowledge dissemination within the geoscience community, fostering collaboration and accelerating scientific progress. Additionally, a series of insightful lectures and presentations were delivered by renowned geologists and experts, covering topics such as machine learning in mineral prospectivity analysis, emerging technologies in geoscience, and the challenges and opportunities surrounding future metal and mineral resources. These presentations provided a glimpse into the ever-evolving landscape of geoscience and the critical role GSI plays in navigating its complexities.
