Hyderabad, March 4 (RAHNUMA):The Geological Survey of India (GSI), established on March 4, 1851, celebrated its 176th Foundation Day at its Southern Region Headquarters in Bandlaguda–Nagole, Hyderabad. GSI is the second-oldest geological survey organisation in the world and has played a pivotal role in India’s development.
The celebrations began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by M. Sridhar, Former Director General of GSI. Vijay V. Mugal, Additional Director General and Head of Department, GSI Southern Region, along with Deputy Directors General of the State Units of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and Regional Mission Heads, graced the occasion. Retired senior officers and staff also attended, adding a sense of nostalgia and pride to the event.
Dignitaries from other government organisations were present, including representatives from the Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), and Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), along with officers and staff of the Southern Region and State Units of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
S. N. Mahapatro, Deputy Director General, State Unit: Andhra Pradesh, welcomed the dignitaries and paid tribute to the pioneers of GSI, highlighting its foundational contributions to nation-building.
In his address, Vijay V. Mugal underscored GSI’s recent achievements in geoscientific studies and mineral investigations. He emphasized the importance of preserving its rich legacy while accelerating exploration of critical and deep-seated minerals to meet the country’s growing demands.
Chief Guest M. Sridhar reflected on GSI’s evolution — from its early role in coal discoveries for railways in 1851 to its present stature as a leader in advanced geoscientific innovation. He stressed the need to strengthen public-good geosciences and marine geological studies, along with systematic mineral exploration.
During the event, the retired dignitaries were felicitated in recognition of their exemplary service. As part of the celebrations, mineral, rock, ore, and fossil specimens were exhibited at the Dr. William King Geological Museum for schoolchildren to promote scientific awareness and nurture curiosity in geoscience.
The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Dipak Hazra, Deputy Director General and Regional Mission Head-I, Southern Region. The celebration concluded with the release of 176 tricolour balloons symbolising GSI’s 176 years of dedicated service to the nation, followed by the National Anthem.
