December 21, 2020

National Geophysical Mapping Programme (NGPM) -

a Baseline Geo-Science Data Collection Initiatives

The National Geophysical Mapping Programme (NGPM) was initiated during FS 2002-
03, which have been systematically generating gravity and magnetic data in an envisaged
station density (one station/2.5 sq.km) to cover the entire country with preference to Obvious
Geological Province (OGP) areas. The anomaly maps derived from the processed gravity and
magnetic data provides all stake holders a framework to design exploration strategies.

Initially the OGP area was taken on priority with a view to identify potential zones for
mineral occurrences. Since the NGPM survey over OGP areas will be completed by the end of
FS: 2020-21, therefore the focus is shifted to cover non-OGP areas (Gangetic alluvium, alluvial
terrains of Rajasthan and Gujarat, Deccan Traps and left over areas of Southern Indian Shield
(SIS) etc.), which will pave way to target concealed/ deep seated deposits to augment mineral
resources. The mapping will lead to the preparation of 1mGal gravity and 50nT magnetic
interval anomaly maps of the country, which will be an essential requirement for formulation of
future mineral exploration programs for all stake holders. At the same time, the interpretation of
gravity &magnetic data will provide insights of crustal architecture and tectonics of the respective
study areas.

The total mappable area of the country (spreading over 5112 no Toposheet) is 31.46
lakh sq.km out of which total 10.73 lakh sq .km area will be covered by FS: 2020-21. A total of
20.73 lakh sq.km area will remain for NGPM coverage after FS: 2020-21. Total area to be
covered by NGPM excluding areas of Himalayan region (3.7 Lakh.sq.km) is 17.0 Lakh sq.km
approximately. It is planned to cover the left over area (17.0 lakh sq.km) of NGPM survey by
March-2024 through in house and outsourcing avenues.

The leftover area is divided in two parts in each Region. The survey in one part will be
executed by utilizing in house capacity during FS 2021-22, 22-23 & 23-24 and rest of the area
(other part) will be covered by means of collaboration/ outsourcing during FS 2021-22, 22-23
& 23-24. Total 3.54 lakh sq.km is envisaged to cover by deploying in-house resources of GSI.
The remaining 14.5 lakh sq.km (2099 Toposheets) is proposed to be covered by Outsourcing
within three years’ time span
 Remaining area of NGPM is highlighted in blue colour
Feedback and Participation in the NGPM Project Initiatives: GSI is working on preparation
of the Scope of Work & technical specification documents along with the commercial terms
and conditions for acquisition of ground geophysical data sets to understand and image the
characteristic features and signatures for mineral exploration activities through open tender
process to engage reputed organizations for executing the project under the supervision of
GSI. In this connection, a pre tender stakeholder consultation process is being undertaken. It
is requested that suggestions and observations on the project may be forwarded to
nmh1a@gsi.gov.in within 10th January 2021.