Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Geoscience Awards 2024 to recognise outstanding contributions in geoscience at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on September 26, 2025.
During the ceremony, Murmu emphasised that minerals formed the foundation of human civilisation and shaped global trade and industry. She noted that major developmental periods, including the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age, derived their names from mineral discoveries. Furthermore, she stated that industrialisation could not have occurred without essential minerals such as iron and coal.
The President acknowledged that mining generates significant economic resources and employment opportunities. However, she warned that the industry creates substantial adverse impacts, including residential displacement, deforestation, and air and water contamination. Murmu stressed that strict regulatory compliance must occur throughout mining operations to minimize these harmful effects. Additionally, she emphasised that proper closure procedures must be implemented to protect both residents and wildlife.
Murmu highlighted India’s strategic position surrounded by oceans on three sides, noting that ocean depths contain valuable mineral reserves. She stated that geoscientists play a vital role in harnessing these underwater resources for national development. Moreover, she urged them to create technologies that extract seafloor resources while preserving marine biodiversity.
President emphasises National Geoscience Awards recipients’ role beyond traditional mining
The President explained that geoscientists’ responsibilities extend beyond extraction activities to address geo-environmental sustainability impacts. She emphasised that technology development must focus on adding value to mineral products while reducing wastage for sustainable mineral development. Murmu expressed satisfaction that the Ministry of Mines promotes artificial intelligence, machine learning, and drone-based surveys in mining operations. She also praised ministerial efforts to recover valuable elements from mine tailings.
Murmu declared that Rare Earth Elements serve as the foundation of modern technology, powering smartphones, electric vehicles, defence systems, and clean energy solutions. Given current geopolitical circumstances, she stressed that India must achieve self-reliance in REE production to reach developed nation status and ensure national security. The President clarified that REEs are considered rare not due to scarcity but because their refinement process is extremely complex. She concluded that developing indigenous technology for this intricate process would significantly benefit national interests.
