Kolkata: In the first such find that can significantly contribute to the country's renewable energy landscape, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has discovered natural hydrogen reserves in the rocks of Andaman and Nicobar Islands this week.
GSI director general Asit Saha said this on Thursday, adding that further research was on to collect and use the natural hydrogen. The discovery would also help achieve net-zero climate targets, he added. "We have discovered this clean energy source in South Andaman district, making it the first such find in the country. Our study identified natural hydrogen in serpentinized pillow basalt," Saha said.
Last month, GSI had inked an MoU with IIT (ISM) Dhanbad for exploration of natural hydrogen in the islands. "We believe this find will strengthen the country's path towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy and help in clean energy transition in industries," Saha added.
"Our exploration study focuses on locating and understanding the geological formations, which could host natural hydrogen reservoirs within the islands," said GSI director Rupesh Kumar.
GSI is also focusing on recycling of critical minerals and rare earth elements like lithium, tungsten, titanium, tin, nickel, cobalt and graphite, among others, so that industries can cut down their dependence on imports. These minerals, used by industries to manufacture various products, can be found in Bengal, especially Purulia, Bankura and Midnapore.
"Our research has found that critical minerals and rare earth elements that are required in industries can also be recycled and reused like scrap iron or junk metals. We are trying to advocate this for industries in the country. Th-is will make Indian industries more self-reliant as they will not have to depend much on imports," Saha said.
Over the last three years, GSI undertook 368 mineral exploration projects across the country. It has planned 1,200 projects for critical mineral exploration by 2030-31. "This strategic plan ensures a focused approach towards securing essential minerals required for industrial development, economic growth, green energy transition and net-zero goals of the nation," Saha added.
For landslide hazard mitigation, GSI was working in Bengal in collaboration with an Italian organisation, CNR-IRPI.
Saha also announced that Union minister for coal and mines G Kishan Reddy would inaugurate GSI's 175th foundation day in the city on March 4.
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