Hyderabad, June 9 (UNI) Union Minister for Coal and Mines and Telangana BJP President, G Kishan Reddy, emphasised the growing importance of science, sustainability, and emerging technologies in mineral exploration to achieve the goals of Viksit Bharat.

Speaking after inaugurating the “Next-Gen Geophysics 2025: Unlocking Earth’s Hidden Treasures” conference at the Geological Survey of India Training Institute (GSITI), Hyderabad, on Monday, he highlighted key initiatives, including the establishment of the National Landslide Forecasting Centre and an MoU with Italy to enhance disaster preparedness.

The minister praised GSI’s 175-year legacy and urged geoscientists to adopt cutting-edge tools like AI and quantum computing for precise exploration. He cited the Rs 10,300 crore India AI Mission and Rs 6,000 crore National Quantum Mission as catalysts for innovation.

He also stressed reducing dependence on imports of critical minerals like lithium and cobalt through responsible, tech-driven mining.

Malkajgiri MP Eatala Rajender called geoscience a transformative field, where traditional methods converge with AI and quantum sensing. He lauded GSI's integration of AI/ML in geohazard assessments and mineral investigations, expressing optimism about India’s leadership in sustainable resource management.

Earlier in the day, Kishan Reddy and Rajender inaugurated two new hydrostatic drill rigs and the next-gen geophysics expo pavilion, which showcased advanced geophysical tools and AI-enabled exploration technologies.

The two-day international conference features participants from India, Australia, Canada, Russia, the USA, Poland, Malaysia, and Singapore. The agenda includes AI-integrated exploration models, high-resolution subsurface imaging, and sustainable mineral development strategies.

Senior GSI officials, international delegates, and geoscientific experts are attending the event, underscoring India’s growing global presence in geoscience and innovation, an official statement said.

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