Shri Dinesh V. Ganvir Assumes Charge as 55th Director General of Geological Survey of India

Kolkata; November 02, 2026

Shri Dinesh Vitthalrao Ganvir has assumed charge as the 55^th Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), an attached office of the Ministry of Mines, Government of India.

Shri Ganvir joined GSI on 1 July 1994, after completing his Master's degree in Geology from RTMNU University, Nagpur. With over 32 years of experience in geological investigations, mineral exploration and institutional administration, he has served in various capacities across GSI's Central, North-Eastern and Northern Regions. Prior to his appointment, he was Additional Director General and Head of Department, Central Region, Nagpur, and National Mission Head-II.

His significant contributions include geological mapping in the Western Bastar Craton, gold and diamond exploration in Maharashtra's Sakoli Fold Belt and geoscientific studies relating to the conservation of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Bhimbetka Rock Shelters and Ellora Caves.

During his tenure as National Mission Head-II, he played a key role in strengthening nationwide exploration of critical and strategic minerals, contributing to a five-fold increase in investigations in recent years. The initiatives facilitated the handover of 359 Geological Reports and 377 Geological Memorandums. Of the 202 critical mineral blocks, 40 have been auctioned, while 11 of the 56 blocks handed over under the Exploration Licence (EL) regime have been auctioned under Tranche I and II.

Upon assuming charge, Shri Ganvir emphasised accelerating critical and strategic mineral exploration through advanced geoscientific investigations, mineral prospectivity mapping and identification of scientifically robust, auction-ready mineral blocks to strengthen India's mineral security and reduce import dependence.

He also underscored the importance of emerging technologies, advanced data analytics, modern laboratory infrastructure and offshore exploration. Strengthening fundamental geoscientific research, landslide early warning systems, glacial studies and geological hazard assessment will also remain key priorities.

Under his leadership, GSI will focus on scientific excellence, innovation, institutional strengthening and outcome-oriented exploration, contributing to mineral security, sustainable development and the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat @2047.

*******

MSA…