Dinesh V. Ganvir Takes Charge as the 55th Director General of Geological Survey of India (GSI)

Why in the News?

**Dinesh Vitthalrao Ganvir** has assumed charge as the **55th Director General (DG)** of the Geological Survey of India (**GSI**), an attached office under the Ministry of Mines, Government of India.

Key Features / Major Points:

- Professional Background & Key Achievements:

- Joined GSI on July 1, 1994, following a Master's degree in Geology from RTMNU University, Nagpur.

- Prior to his appointment as DG, he served as Additional Director General (ADG) and Head of Department, Central Region, Nagpur.

- Holds over 32 years of rich geoscientific experience, including gold and diamond exploration in Maharashtra's Sakoli Fold Belt, and conservation studies for UNESCO World Heritage Sites like **Bhimbetka Rock Shelters** and **Ellora Caves**.

- Key Contributions as National Mission Head-II:

- Spearheaded a **five-fold jump** in investigations for critical and strategic minerals in recent times.

- Facilitated the handover of **359 Geological Reports** and **377 Geological Memorandums**, including 202 blocks pertained to critical minerals (40 of which have been successfully auctioned).

- Core Strategic Priorities:

- Intensifying exploration of critical and strategic minerals to reduce import dependence and support the vision of **Atmanirbhar Bharat** and **Viksit Bharat 2047**.

- Harnessing AI and advanced data analytics, strengthening laboratory infrastructure, landslide early warning systems, and offshore mineral exploration.

Static GK Facts:

- Geological Survey of India (GSI):

- Formed: **March 4, 1851** (Founded by Thomas Oldham).

- Headquarters: **Kolkata, West Bengal**.

- Nodal Ministry: **Ministry of Mines**.

- Regional Offices (6): Kolkata, Jaipur, Nagpur, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Shillong.

- Ministry of Mines:

- Union Cabinet Minister: **G. Kishan Reddy**.

One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):

Q: Who has taken charge as the 55th Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI)?

A: Dinesh Vitthalrao Ganvir

Q: Where is the national headquarters of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) located?

A: Kolkata, West Bengal

Q: In which year was the Geological Survey of India (GSI) established?

A: 1851 (March 4, 1851)

Q: Who is the current Union Minister of Mines in India?

A: G. Kishan Reddy

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