The prestigious National Geoscience Awards ceremony was held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan today, with President Droupadi Murmu bestowing honors upon 22 exceptional individuals for their remarkable contributions to the field of geoscience. The event celebrated the exemplary work and groundbreaking research carried out by these distinguished awardees, recognizing their significant role in advancing geosciences in India.
President Murmu, along with several distinguished dignitaries from the scientific community, graced the occasion, commending the awardees for their relentless pursuit of knowledge and dedication to geoscience. The National Geoscience Awards, an initiative of the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, have been a longstanding tradition to acknowledge and encourage exemplary research and innovations in various aspects of geology, mineral exploration, and earth sciences.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Murmu expressed her admiration for the awardees’ exceptional contributions, stating that their groundbreaking research and discoveries have not only enriched the scientific community but also contributed significantly to India’s sustainable development and natural resource management.
The awardees were chosen through a rigorous selection process, wherein their research work, publications, and overall impact on the field were meticulously evaluated by an esteemed panel of experts. The recipients of the National Geoscience Awards represent a diverse range of geoscience disciplines, including geological mapping, mineral exploration, environmental geology, hydrogeology, and geophysical research.
About the winners this year
Among the notable recipients was Dr. Rajesh Kumar Sharma, whose research on the geological formations in the Himalayan region has garnered international acclaim. His work has contributed substantially to understanding the geological processes that shape the world’s most extensive mountain range.
Another awardee, Dr. Ananya Verma, was honored for her groundbreaking research on groundwater conservation and management in water-scarce regions of Central India. Her work has had a transformative impact on sustainable water resource planning and management in the country.
The National Geoscience Awards also recognized the outstanding contributions of teams and organizations. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) received recognition for its pioneering efforts in geological mapping, mineral exploration, and natural hazard assessment, which have been invaluable for national development and disaster preparedness.
During her speech, President Murmu emphasized the vital role of geoscience in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, natural disasters, and sustainable resource management. She urged the scientific community to continue their research with determination and dedication, as their work would play a crucial role in securing the future of the nation and the planet.
The event concluded on a high note, with the awardees expressing their gratitude to the Government of India, the Ministry of Mines, and the scientific community for recognizing their efforts. They also pledged to continue their pursuit of excellence in geoscience and contribute to the betterment of society through their research and discoveries.
As the recipients of the National Geoscience Awards return to their respective institutions and research endeavors, their work will continue to inspire and pave the way for a more sustainable and geologically-aware India. Their achievements will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the scientific community and the nation as a whole.
