The Geological Survey of India (GSI) will lead the DPIIC as part of wider efforts to reduce import dependency for strategic minerals.

The initiative combines geoscience expertise with modern data analytics, supported by high-performance computing, cloud data management, and advanced 3D subsurface visualization.

The DPIIC will analyze mineral-potential areas spanning about 8.5 lakh square kilometres over five years, integrating decades of geological, geophysical, geochemical and satellite data to improve targeting and evaluation of mineral resources.

By integrating vast geoscientific data with advanced AI, the DPIIC aims to identify high-potential mineralisation zones and streamline exploration.

The initiative aligns with India’s strategic priorities in clean energy, electronics, semiconductor manufacturing and defence indigenisation, where access to critical minerals is essential.

The centre will use AI and machine learning to process large geoscientific datasets and produce predictive models and prospectivity maps that help pinpoint high-potential areas before costly fieldwork and drilling.

This signals a shift from traditional field-driven exploration to AI-driven, data-centric methods in India’s mineral strategy.

Officials expect the initiative to boost exploration efficiency, reduce risks in mineral targeting, and accelerate progression from prospective regions to detailed exploration and mining, strengthening domestic mineral security amid global competition.

The AI-driven approach is anticipated to improve exploration success rates, bolster domestic supply chains, and support long-term economic and technological growth.

The centre is expected to provide a centralized geoscientific intelligence repository to aid policymakers, research institutions, and exploration agencies, reducing exploration risks and increasing viable mineral blocks.

GSI will establish a Rs 100 crore DPIIC in Bengaluru to advance AI-enabled mineral exploration and accelerate discovery of critical and strategic minerals.

The move supports India’s goals in electric vehicles, renewable energy, semiconductor manufacturing and defence indigenisation, underscoring the strategic importance of secure mineral supply.