India, November 13, 2014: At the fourth meeting of Geo-science Advisory Council (GAC), the Minister of mines, steel and labour and employment, Narendra Singh Tomar, in his inaugural address said India has about 8 lakh square kilometre area identified as Obvious Geological Potential (OGP). However, he added that the geophysical and geochemical mapping of the country’s resources has been achieved only to a limited extent.
“Since the field of mining is directly linked to country’s growth, we must develop a time-bound action plan to complete geo-physical and geo-chemical mapping of our national resources and share this data in public domain to attract investment in mining. Emphasis of action plan should be on speed and quality. GAC, with its expertise and experience, should recommend solutions to fast-track the exploration activity in the country so that this resource base in utilised in the best possible manner,” he said.
He further observed that GAC’s recommendations should contain specific actionable points. Government is committed to provide every possible assistance in this effort, be it in terms of policy, personnel, technology or budget, he added.
The meeting was attended by secretary, Ministry of Mines and Vice Chairman of GAC, Anup Kumar Pujari, senior government officers and members of GAC, drawn from various central ministries, scientific institutions including Geological Survey of India.
Source: PIB
