ITANAGAR, Aug 10: Science and Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul today pitched for accelerating geothermal energy and critical mineral exploration in the State, saying its vast geological resources should be harnessed responsibly to support 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, the Minister stressed 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,” Dasanglu said.
Reviewing geothermal exploration and resource assessment being undertaken by the Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) in collaboration with Oil India Limited (OIL), the Minister emphasized exploring both direct utilization of geothermal heat and its potential for power generation.
The geothermal drying technology demonstrated by CES&HS at Dirang was highlighted during the meeting 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,” the Minister said.
Stating that critical minerals have assumed “growing” strategic and economic importance, Dasanglu called for coordinated exploration backed by scientific expertise and modern technology.
CES&HS' contribution to early-stage drone mapping and geological planning of the block was also acknowledged.
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.
Secretary Science and Technology Wayong Khimhun, Director CESHS Tana Tage, OIL Resident Chief Executive Binayananda Bharali and senior officials of OIL and MECL attended the meeting.