Mines ministry to conduct aerial survey of 8.13 lakh sq km

The Mines Ministry is in the process of conducting an aerial survey of 8.13 lakh sq km area, a move that will aid in mineral exploration in the country.
"Total 8.13 lakh sq km of obvious geological potential (OBP) area will be taken up for aero-geophysical survey," Mines Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said today while chairing the first meeting of the governing body of National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET).
The Minister emphasised on the need for working in close coordination with states and also bringing the beneficiaries from exploration and exploration agencies on same platform for better synergy and progress, the ministry said in a statement.

Tomar underscored the significance of professional and business-like functioning for a time-bound and result-oriented approach.
Exploration of minerals on an urgent basis is need of the hour and NMET is taking a concrete shape with this first meeting to give direction and energy to exploration, he added.
Coal and Power Minister Piyush Goyal suggested coking coal should be given priority while carrying out exploration, to achieve self-sufficiency and to minimise spends on foreign currency.

He emphasised on the need for adopting innovation and advanced technologies in meeting the exploration goals, the statement said.
Other issues discussed by the governing body included Environment and Forest clearances for exploration, use of space technology, pooling of resources and capabilities, NMET fund utilisation, role of central and state agencies and PSUs, exploration status with respect to mine auction planning.

Roping in experts and private agencies for value addition, matters pertaining to North-east states, exploration rate schedule for all minerals and e-governance also came up for discussion during the meeting.