Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), a constituent unit of Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), commemorated its 75thAnniversary of Foundation Day on July 29, 2024. The grand celebration was held in the AMD Headquarters at Begumpet, Hyderabad with simultaneous events at seven Regional Centres located at New Delhi, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, Shillong, Jaipur, Nagpur, and Cherlapally (Hyderabad), along with threeSectional Offices situated at Thiruvananthapuram, Visakhapatnam and Kolkata. The main function was organised in Dr. Homi J. Bhabha Auditorium at AMD Headquarters, Hyderabad and was webcast over an online platform to ensure wider participation.

 

 

The occasion was graced by distinguished guests, including the Chief Guest, Dr. A.K. Mohanty, Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)&Secretary,Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Guest of Honour, Dr.Komal Kapoor, Chairman & Chief Executive, Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC) and Special Guest, Dr. K.K. Dwivedy, Former Director, AMD. Additionally, Shri Dheeraj Pande, Director, AMD and Additional Directors, Dr. Prakhar Kumar and Shri Prem Kumar Sharma were present with several AMD dignitaries joining virtually.

The inaugural event commenced with invocation to Goddess Saraswati. Shri Dheeraj Pande delivered the welcome address. He also presented an overview of AMD's illustrious history, tracing its origins from the Rare Minerals Survey Unit (RMSU) of the Geological Survey of India during World War II to its establishment under the Atomic Energy Commission on July 29, 1949. 
Shri Pande highlighted AMD's journey and relentless efforts in augmenting the atomic mineral(s) resources of the nation and reiterated the Directorate's commitment to excellence in exploration and research. To mark this historic milestone, a special logo commemorating AMD's 75 years of service was unveiled by Chief Guest Dr. Mohanty. Subsequently,                     Dr. K.K. Dwivedy along with Dr. Komal Kapoor addressed the gathering, acknowledging the significant contributions of AMD. The event also featured the release of five in-house publications by Dr. Mohanty, celebrating the remarkable achievements of the Directorate.

 

In his address, Dr.Mohanty mentioned that exploration strategy of AMD for atomic minerals as well as the development of nuclear science & technology in India has been indigenously developed since the conceptualization of Nuclear Power Programme by Dr.Homi Bhabha. He expressed satisfaction that AMD has diversified its exploration capabilities and initiated exploration for critical and strategic elements like Rare Metals (Li, Be, Nb-Ta) and Rare Earth Elements (REE) which are most important in the context of Green Energy transition in India. He mentioned that contribution of nuclear power in the energy mix will be crucial.  He also highlighted the non-power applications of nuclear technologies in health, food, agriculture and other sectors. Congratulating the Directorate on the 75th Anniversary of Foundation Day, he remarked that the scope of activities for AMD to augment atomic mineral(s) resources are still immense considering the availability of incessant mineral wealth in mother earth.

A cultural programme held on the occasion met with wide-spread acclaim and applause. The programme was followed by the vote of thanks by the Chief Administrative & Accounts officer, Shri S.S. Prasad Rao. The event concluded with rendering of the National Anthem.

 

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