GSI’s Marine and Coastal Survey Division to Host Workshop in Mangalore

Mangalore: The Geological Survey of India’s (GSI) Marine and Coastal Survey Division (MCSD) is set to organize a groundbreaking workshop titled “Offshore Exploration: Synergies and Opportunities (OESO)” on 15th February 2024 in Mangalore. The workshop aims to bring together key stakeholders in the offshore exploration domain, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Shri. V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Government of India, will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, alongside Shri Janardan Prasad, Director General, GSI, and other senior functionaries from Ministries, State Directorates of Mining & Geology, PSUs, private mining industry representatives, and mining associations.

The workshop will center its discussions on crucial topics such as Amendments in the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development & Regulation) Act, 2002, the recent handover of 35 offshore blocks by GSI to the Ministry of Mines for auction, and the formulation of draft guidelines for the notification of private exploration agencies for offshore exploration. These discussions aim to streamline and facilitate private sector participation in offshore exploration activities.

The comprehensive agenda of the workshop includes an overview of GSI’s offshore activities, government initiatives in promoting exploration and exploitation, collaborative frameworks for data sharing, and sustainable practices for offshore mineral exploration. The primary goal is to establish effective mechanisms for data sharing and collaboration among agencies involved in offshore exploration, creating an environment for joint research initiatives, information sharing, and technical expertise exchange.

Experts in the field will present on various topics, ranging from data acquisition to environmental considerations, providing participants with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the offshore exploration sector. With participation expected from ministries, research institutions, academia, and industry, the workshop aims to be a platform for fruitful discussions, contributing significantly to the sustainable development of mineral resources and environmental protection.