Professor Sanjit Kumar Pal of IIT ISM Dhanbad has been awarded the prestigious National Geoscience Award 2024 for his pioneering research in applied geophysics, recognized formally by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan. His innovative work in UAV-based and satellite remote sensing, advanced geophysical techniques, and AI/ML integration has made a significant impact on mining, groundwater exploration, environmental studies, and engineering geophysics.
π A Landmark for Jharkhand’s Geoscience Legacy
This honor marks a major milestone not only for IIT ISM Dhanbad, a stalwart in Indian mining education, but also for Jharkhand’s standing in geoscientific innovation. Since its founding, IIT ISM has served as Jharkhand’s technical backbone, training generations of mine engineers and geoscientists who have powered local industries from Dhanbad’s coalfields to Ranchi’s expanding infrastructure.
π‘ “Prof. Pal’s work blends cutting-edge technology with local resource needsβputting Jharkhand on the global geoscience map.”
π¬ Why Prof. Pal’s Work Matters
- π°οΈ Remote Sensing & UAVs: Prof. Pal’s research utilizes satellite data and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for precise mappingβcrucial for Jharkhand’s mineral-rich terrain and environmental preservation.
- π€ AI/ML in Geophysics: He integrates artificial intelligence and machine learning to process vast datasets, improving groundwater explorationβa pressing need for rural Jharkhand communities.
- π Environmental Impact: His methods are used for land use analyses, mine site reclamation, and monitoring pollutionβessential for balancing Jharkhand’s mining economy with sustainability goals.
π¬ “Tech-driven geoscience means safer mines, cleaner water, and smarter resource managementβfor Jharkhand’s future.”
π― Key Achievements and Local Impact
π Major Outcomes:
| Achievement |
Impact |
| βοΈ Mineral Exploration Maps |
Improved maps for Dhanbad and Jharia coalfields |
| π§ Groundwater Studies |
Enhanced water access in rural areas |
| β οΈ Risk Assessment |
Enhanced landslide and mining hazard prediction |
| β»οΈ Sustainable Mining |
Reduced environmental footprint |
ποΈ Jharkhand Focus:
- π Local projects in Bokaro, Giridih, and Ranchi have benefited from Pal’s geophysical models.
- π€ Collaboration with state agencies ensures direct application for Jharkhand’s natural resource management.
- π¨βπ Fieldwork with IIT ISM students brings research to communities, connecting academic advances with local needs.
π― IIT(ISM) Dhanbad Becomes Critical Minerals Centre
π
Award Details & Significance
| π
Award Date |
September 26, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan |
| ποΈ Presented By |
President of India |
| π Award History |
Instituted in 1966, honors outstanding contributions in applied geosciences |
| π Significance |
Draws attention to Jharkhand as a leader in geoscientific R&D nationwide |
π Fast Facts
| π« IIT ISM Dhanbad: India’s oldest mining school, established in 1926 |
| π Jharkhand: Home to 40% of India’s mineral wealth |
| π National Geoscience Awards 2024: 12 awards across 3 categories, 208 nominations |
βοΈ Opportunities and Challenges for Jharkhand
| β
Opportunities |
β οΈ Challenges |
- π Advanced geophysical methods can attract mining investment
- π± Data-driven environmental management fosters sustainability
- π Skill development for local students in new technologies
|
- β±οΈ Slow translation of research into policy
- π³ Balancing mining with forest and water protection
- π° Funding constraints for rural outreach
|
π± Empowering Jharkhand: Prof. Pal’s work promises smarter mining, safer environments, and sustainable growthβmaking science a tool for local transformation.
π Looking Forward
Prof. Sanjit Kumar Pal’s recognition with the National Geoscience Award 2024 is a proud moment for Jharkhand’s academic community and a call to strengthen ties between technical research and grassroots development. With continued innovation and collaboration, Jharkhand is set to not just sustain but lead India’s next era of smart, responsible resource management.
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