Masrat Shah
BUDGAM, OCTOBER 02: Chief Secretary, Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta, marked a significant occasion as he inaugurated the Geology and Mining Department’s pioneering Geo-science Museum & District Mineral Office Budgam at SIDCO Budgam.
Expressing his admiration for the Geology and Mining Department, the Chief Secretary highlighted the Geo-science Museum’s role as a vital research hub for geologists and scientists. Dr. Mehta envisioned the museum not only as a hub for Geoscience tourism but also as a guardian of the region’s rich geological heritage.
During the virtual inspection of the museum, Chief Secretary Mehta took note of the 150 preserved samples, including fossils, rock minerals, and industrial minerals from Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the importance of the museum as an educational and awareness center, enabling students to delve into the region’s abundant geological history.
Dr. Rashmi Singh, Secretary Mining, addressed the gathering during the inauguration and praised the department for its remarkable achievement in assembling a vast collection of minerals under one roof at the museum. She urged educators and school administrators to utilize the museum’s resources to educate students about the preservation of J&K’s rich heritage.
Secretary Mining also provided insights into the Department’s efforts in preserving mineral and geological resources. As a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti, the museum displayed stone-carved models, including a Charkha.
In honor of Gandhiji, Secretary Mining led a pledge ceremony emphasizing non-violence, cleanliness, and the fight against drug abuse. The event also featured the release of a compendium on the District Mineral Foundation Trust and Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana.
The Director Geology and Mining, Om Prakash Bhagat, delivered the welcome address, while Joint Director Nisar Ahmad Khawaja extended a warm welcome to the attendees. Professor GM Bhat provided an overview of the preservation efforts related to fossils, minerals, and other resources.