HYDERABAD, NOVEMBER 10, 2026: Sri G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Coal and Mines, along with Shri Eatala Rajender, Member of Parliament from Malkajgiri, inaugurated three major facilities at the Geological Survey of India Training Institute (GSITI), Bandlaguda-Nagole, Hyderabad, on Tuesday
The facilities include the International Hostel (Nalanda and Takshashila), the Advanced Geophysical Data Processing Laboratory, and the Digital Studio.
Following the inauguration, the Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy and Shri Eatala Rajender visited the newly inaugurated facilities and reviewed the infrastructure and facilities established at GSITI to strengthen its training, research and capacity-building activities.
Addressing the gathering, Shri G. Kishan Reddy highlighted the crucial role of the minerals and mining sector in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation. The Union Minister highlighted GSI’s 176-year legacy and its significant contribution to geological surveys across the country. He emphasised the importance of the National Critical Mineral Mission and called for accelerating the exploration of critical minerals and rare-earth elements to strengthen India’s mineral security and reduce dependence on other countries. He urged GSI to further intensify exploration, particularly in areas with potential critical mineral deposits, and called for the deployment of dedicated teams to expedite exploration activities and ensure the timely preparation and auction of mineral blocks.
Referring to ongoing exploration efforts in different parts of the country, including the Siwana Ring Complex (SRC) of Rajasthan, he stressed the need to strengthen exploration of heavy rare-earth elements and other critical minerals.
Shri G. Kishan Reddy also emphasised the importance of adopting advanced technologies, undertaking institutional reforms and strengthening international cooperation to enhance GSI’s exploration and research capabilities. He highlighted the need to strengthen engagement with national and international universities and institutions and upgrade training facilities to international standards. He also encouraged GSI to make geological information and data more accessible to the public through open platforms, enabling wider utilisation of the country’s geoscientific resources. Highlighting India’s energy requirements, the Union Minister underscored the importance of maintaining adequate coal production to ensure energy security. He noted that coal-based thermal power plays a major role in meeting the country’s electricity requirements.
Speaking on the occasion, MP Shri Eatala Rajender highlighted the importance of scientific research, technological advancement and innovation in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. He observed that global development is increasingly driven by advanced technologies, semiconductor industries and research. He emphasised the need to effectively explore and utilise India’s mineral resources and adopt advanced technologies to strengthen the country’s global competitiveness. Appreciating the contribution of GSITI, Hyderabad, he encouraged scientists, researchers and faculty members to intensify their research activities and contribute to national development.
Shri Dinesh V. Ganvir, Director General, Geological Survey of India, Smt. Farida M. Naik, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Mines, along with senior officials of the Ministry of Mines and GSI and GSITI participated in the programme.
About the Three New Facilities:
- International Hostel (Nalanda & Takshashila): Established at a cost of ₹4.27 crore, funded by GSI, the facility has 32 fully furnished suites with modern amenities, including dining, recreation, gymnasium, mini-library and laundry facilities. Developed in line with the suggestions of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), it will provide comfortable accommodation for international trainees and promote professional interaction, cultural exchange and international collaboration.
- Advanced Geophysical Data Processing Laboratory Established with ₹4.55 crore funding from National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust (NMEDT) and GSI, the laboratory has 25 high-end computer systems and modern software for advanced geophysical data processing, modelling, inversion and interpretation, strengthening capacity in mineral exploration.
- Digital Studio: Established at a cost of ₹30 lakh with support from (Capacity Building Commission) CBC and GSI, the studio will facilitate the creation of quality digital learning resources, including video lectures, podcasts and webinars, for the iGOT Karmayogi portal, in line with Mission Karmayogi.
The newly inaugurated facilities are expected to significantly contribute to strengthening institutional infrastructure, extensive promoting international cooperation, facilitating advanced geoscientific training, international collaboration and digital learning capabilities.
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