New Delhi: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has significantly expanded its exploration activities during Field Season 2025-26, reinforcing India’s push towards mineral self-reliance and long-term resource security.
The agency carried out 458 exploration projects during the period, with nearly half focused on critical and strategic minerals, officials said. This includes 92 projects targeting rare earth elements, aimed at reducing import dependence and strengthening domestic supply chains.
A major focus has also been on preparing auction-ready mineral blocks to accelerate commercial development. In the past year, GSI delivered 80 geological reports, including 39 reports on critical minerals, along with four coal blocks.
To encourage private participation, the agency offered seven Regional Mineral Targeting blocks and 16 G3-stage blocks in Siwana, Rajasthan to the National Mineral Exploration Development Trust for exploration through private agencies.
The season also saw several notable discoveries across the country. These include vanadium and titanium deposits in Chhattisgarh’s Sabag region, rare earth elements and niobium in Ambadungar, Gujarat, graphite and titanium in Jharkhand, and copper in Odisha’s Madanasahi block.
A significant breakthrough was the identification of natural hydrogen in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, which officials described as a promising development for India’s clean energy transition.
In a post on X, GSI said: “GSI’s work in FS 2025-26 reflects a clear strategic direction, from expanding exploration to delivering actionable, auction-ready mineral resources that support a self-reliant and Atmanirbhar Bharat. GSI continues to work relentlessly, driving geoscientific excellence to support the country’s growth and mineral security.”
