Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh Science and Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul on Monday called for accelerating geothermal energy and critical mineral exploration in the state, stressing the need to harness its geological resources responsibly for sustainable development and energy security.
Chairing a review meeting on geothermal exploration in the Tawang region and critical mineral exploration at her office in Itanagar, Pul called for greater coordination among scientific institutions, public sector undertakings and government agencies.
“Arunachal Pradesh has immense potential in geothermal energy and critical minerals. We need to translate scientific exploration into practical applications that can benefit local communities and contribute to the state’s long-term economic growth,” Pul said.
The meeting reviewed geothermal exploration and resource assessment being undertaken by the Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CES&HS) in collaboration with Oil India Limited (OIL).
Pul stressed the need to explore both the direct utilisation of geothermal heat and its potential for power generation. The geothermal drying technology demonstrated by CES&HS at Dirang was also discussed as a potential model for replication in other suitable areas.
“Technologies such as geothermal drying can have direct livelihood applications, particularly in agriculture and allied sectors. Successful models should be identified, refined and replicated wherever feasible,” Pul said.
The meeting also reviewed critical mineral exploration, particularly the Phop Graphite and Vanadium Block acquired by OIL in Tranche-IV of the Ministry of Mines’ auction process.
Pul said critical minerals have assumed growing strategic and economic importance and called for coordinated exploration backed by scientific expertise and modern technology.
The contribution of CES&HS to early-stage drone mapping and geological planning of the block was also acknowledged.
Science and Technology Secretary Wayong Khimhun, CES&HS Director Tana Tage, OIL Resident Chief Executive Binayananda Bharali and senior officials of OIL and MECL attended the meeting.