The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has issued a strong rebuttal to recent claims published in The Morning Standard on 7th May 2025, under the headline “Potash reserve found, AAP Govt. says Centre discriminating on exploration.” This article is crucial for aspirants preparing for competitive exams, as it clarifies key facts about GSI’s exploration activities and India’s mineral development strategy.
GSI’s Official Clarification
Scientific Basis for Exploration
The GSI, a premier scientific agency under the Ministry of Mines, has categorically stated that all decisions regarding exploration activities, including those for potash, are driven by scientific merit, geological data, and techno-economic feasibility. The agency refutes any allegations of regional bias or discrimination, emphasizing that its operations are guided by national priorities and evidence-based assessments.
Potash Exploration in Punjab
Nagaur-Ganganagar Evaporite Basin (NGEB)
Potash-bearing formations in Punjab are part of the larger Nagaur-Ganganagar Evaporite Basin (NGEB), which primarily lies in Rajasthan, with a smaller extension into Punjab. GSI has been actively exploring this region as part of its long-term national strategy for mineral development.
Past Exploration Efforts
Since 1985-86, GSI has conducted five reconnaissance (G4 stage) exploration projects in Punjab’s Ferozepur, Sri Muktsar Sahib, and Fazilka districts. These studies identified potash mineralization at depths of 630 to 770 metres, associated with halite, clay, and dolomite.
Ongoing and Future Projects
New Exploration Initiatives
In the current Field Season 2025-26, GSI has initiated two new G4 stage exploration projects in Rajpura-Rajawali and Gidranwali-Azimgarh blocks, Fazilka District, Punjab. These projects cover 128 sq. km and involve 5100m of drilling across six boreholes. The initiatives were launched following a request from the Government of Punjab during the 64th Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) meeting in January 2025, demonstrating GSI’s responsiveness to state inputs.
Future Prospects
Exploration in these blocks is ongoing, and based on promising results, GSI plans to scale up to G3 and G2 stages in future programs. Additionally, GSI is conducting gravity-magnetic surveys under its National Geophysical Mapping Programme (NGPM) to better delineate mineralized zones, as the region is covered by thick soil and Quaternary sediments.
GSI’s Commitment to Mineral Development
National Strategy and Inclusivity
GSI reaffirms its commitment to the mineral development of all Indian states, including Punjab. Beyond potash, Punjab is regularly included in GSI’s national exploration strategy, ensuring equitable focus on resource development across the country.
Call for Stakeholder Understanding
The agency urges stakeholders to recognize that scientific exploration is a technical process driven by geological evidence and resource viability. GSI emphasizes that its work aligns with national priorities, ensuring sustainable and equitable mineral development.
For more updates on current affairs relevant to competitive exams, visit GKboard.in.