National Geoscience Awards 2023 Presented in India

The National Geoscience Awards for 2023 were presented by President Droupadi Murmu to 21 geoscientists at a ceremony in New Delhi, recognizing achievements in geosciences, mineral exploration, and natural hazard studies. The awards included the Lifetime Achievement Award given to Prof Dhiraj Mohan Banerjee for his significant contributions to phosphorites and isotope geology, while Dr Ashutosh Pandey received the National Young Geoscientist Award for his research on the Eastern Dharwar Craton. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) teams won multiple awards, including in the mineral discovery category, showcasing their vital role in India's mineral exploration efforts. The government emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in mineral production as part of its vision for a developed India by 2047. Minister of Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy highlighted ongoing reforms to enhance the mining sector, including amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act. The government's initiatives aim to better utilize India's geoscience knowledge and natural resources.