Absence of sustainable mining and lack of mineral exploration in India are the key issues which will be discussed during international seminar here on Saturday. The two-day seminar, organised by Society of Geoscientists and Allied Technologists (SGAT), is based on ‘Developments in Mineral Exploration Techniques - Strategy and Challenges’. Addressing mediapersons on Thursday, SGAT president SK Sarangi said thorough exploration of mineral reserves in the country was essential for systematic development of economy.
In the last decade, only about nine per cent of the country’s mineral reserves have been explored. SGAT general secretary BC Patnaik said, “An applicant has to wait for at least 10 years on an average to acquire a mining lease. This is one of the reasons why foreign companies hesitate to invest in the mining sector despite Central Government allowing Foreign Direct Investment in the sector,” said Patnaik.
More than 150 delegates are expected to participate in the seminar where 35 technical papers will be presented.Director General of Geological Survey of India (GSI) SC Rath will be the chief guest for the event while Trade Commissioner of Australia Trade Commission Tom Calder will be the guest of honour.