National Geoscience Awards 2024 celebrated India’s top earth scientists, highlighting sustainable mining, rare earth self-reliance, and advancements in geosciences.
National Geoscience Awards 2024: Honouring India’s Top Earth Scientists
On September 26, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Geoscience Awards 2024 at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi. This prestigious event recognised 20 distinguished scientists for their exceptional contributions to the field of geosciences, encompassing areas such as mineral exploration, geophysics, oceanography, and environmental sustainability.
Award Categories and Notable Recipients
The awards were conferred across three main categories:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Prof. Shyam Sundar Rai, Senior Scientist at the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and Visiting Professor at IISER Pune, was honoured for his pioneering research in solid Earth and exploration geophysics, particularly his seismic studies across Peninsular India, the western Himalayas, and Ladakh.
- National Young Geoscientist Award: Shri Susobhan Neogi, Senior Geologist at the Geological Survey of India, received this accolade for his outstanding work in the field of geosciences.
- National Geoscience Awards: Ten awards were presented to individuals and teams for excellence in various subfields, including:
- Marine and Ocean Sciences: Dr. VVSS Sarma, Chief Scientist at the CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) regional centre in Visakhapatnam, was recognised for his extensive research in chemical oceanography and marine sciences.
- Mineral Beneficiation: Dr. Ranjeet Kumar Singh was honoured for his significant contributions to the advancement of technologies and processes related to the enrichment and value addition of minerals.
Presidential Address and Emphasis on Sustainable Practices
In her address, President Murmu highlighted the integral role of minerals in human civilisation, noting that the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages were named after minerals. She acknowledged the economic benefits of mining but cautioned against its adverse effects, such as displacement of local communities, deforestation, and pollution. The President stressed the importance of adhering to mining regulations and implementing sustainable practices to mitigate these negative impacts.
Furthermore, President Murmu underscored the need for India to achieve self-reliance in the production of rare earth elements (REEs). She called upon geoscientists to develop indigenous technologies for refining REEs and to explore the vast mineral wealth present in the oceans, ensuring that such endeavours are conducted responsibly to protect marine biodiversity.
Why This News Is Important
Recognition of Excellence in Geosciences
The National Geoscience Awards 2024 serve as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional contributions of scientists in the field of geosciences. By honouring individuals and teams who have made significant advancements in areas such as mineral exploration, oceanography, and environmental sustainability, the awards highlight the critical role of geoscientists in addressing global challenges.
Promotion of Sustainable Practices
President Murmu’s emphasis on sustainable mining practices and the responsible exploration of marine resources reflects the government’s commitment to balancing economic development with environmental conservation. This approach aligns with India’s broader objectives of achieving sustainable growth and mitigating the adverse effects of industrial activities on ecosystems.
Advancement of Indigenous Technologies
The call for self-reliance in the production of rare earth elements underscores the importance of developing indigenous technologies. By fostering innovation and reducing dependence on external sources, India can enhance its technological capabilities and strengthen its position in the global market for critical minerals.
Inspiration for Aspiring Scientists
The recognition of distinguished scientists serves as an inspiration for aspiring geoscientists and researchers. It encourages young professionals to pursue careers in geosciences and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and technology in this vital field.
Alignment with National Development Goals
The awards and the President’s address align with India’s national development goals, particularly in the areas of sustainable development, technological innovation, and environmental conservation. By integrating these objectives into the geosciences sector, India can achieve holistic and inclusive growth.
Historical Context
Evolution of the National Geoscience Awards
Instituted in 1966 by the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, the National Geoscience Awards were originally known as the National Mineral Awards until 2009. These awards have been recognising excellence in the field of geosciences for several decades, celebrating the achievements of individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to the understanding and development of geoscientific knowledge and practices.
India’s Commitment to Geoscientific Research
Over the years, India has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing geoscientific research and development. Institutions such as the Geological Survey of India, CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, and CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute have been at the forefront of this endeavour, conducting extensive research in various subfields of geosciences. The recognition of scientists from these institutions through the National Geoscience Awards reflects the nation’s dedication to fostering scientific excellence and innovation.
Government Initiatives for Sustainable Development
The government’s focus on sustainable mining practices and the responsible exploration of marine resources aligns with broader national initiatives aimed at promoting environmental conservation and sustainable development. Policies and programmes have been implemented to ensure that industrial activities are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner, balancing economic growth with ecological preservation.
Key Takeaways from National Geoscience Awards 2024
| No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Geoscience Awards 2024 on September 26, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, recognising 20 scientists for their contributions to geosciences. |
| 2 | Prof. Shyam Sundar Rai received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his seismic research across Peninsular India, the western Himalayas, and Ladakh. |
| 3 | Dr. VVSS Sarma was honoured for his research in chemical oceanography and marine sciences at the CSIR-NIO regional centre in Visakhapatnam. |
| 4 | Dr. Ranjeet Kumar Singh was recognised for his advancements in mineral beneficiation technologies. |
| 5 | President Murmu emphasised the need for sustainable mining practices and self-reliance in rare earth element production, urging the development of indigenous technologies. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the National Geoscience Awards?
The National Geoscience Awards, instituted by the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, recognise outstanding contributions of scientists and researchers in geosciences, including mineral exploration, geophysics, oceanography, and environmental sustainability.
2. Who presented the National Geoscience Awards 2024?
President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards on September 26, 2025, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi.
3. Who received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024?
Prof. Shyam Sundar Rai, Senior Scientist at INSA and Visiting Professor at IISER Pune, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his seismic research across Peninsular India, the western Himalayas, and Ladakh.
4. What was the President’s emphasis during the award ceremony?
President Murmu stressed sustainable mining practices, environmental conservation, and self-reliance in the production of rare earth elements, urging the development of indigenous technologies.
5. Which institutions were represented by awardees in 2024?
The awardees came from institutions like the Geological Survey of India, CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), and CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, highlighting India’s geoscientific research excellence.
6. What is the significance of rare earth elements (REEs) mentioned in the awards?
REEs are critical minerals essential for high-tech industries, defense, and renewable energy technologies. The President emphasised developing domestic capabilities to reduce dependence on imports.
7. How do these awards inspire students preparing for government exams?
Understanding achievements in geosciences can aid students in topics like environmental science, geology, and sustainable development, which are frequently asked in exams such as UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, and Defence.
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