In a significant stride toward bolstering India’s scientific workforce, the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) in Hyderabad has launched a specialized training program titled “Near Surface Geophysical Techniques – Applications.” Running from January 19 to 30, 2026, this initiative is designed to equip participants with practical skills in geophysical methods, aligning seamlessly with the Government of India’s “Skill India” mission. The program targets postgraduate unemployed youth, industry professionals, and academic faculties, addressing the growing demand for expertise in earth sciences amid rapid industrialization and environmental challenges.
Bridging the Skills Gap in Earth Sciences
NGRI, a premier constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has long been at the forefront of geophysical research in India. Established in Hyderabad, the institute focuses on areas such as groundwater exploration, earthquake studies, and resource mapping. According to NGRI’s official website, the organization prioritizes the “Skill India” mission by offering integrated training programs that create a high-quality skilled workforce in science and technology sectors. These efforts are tailored to meet emerging industry needs, particularly at various levels of the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF).
The “Near Surface Geophysical Techniques – Applications” program delves into advanced methods for investigating subsurface structures, which are crucial for applications in environmental monitoring, infrastructure development, and resource management. Participants will explore techniques such as electrical resistivity tomography, ground-penetrating radar, and seismic refraction—tools increasingly vital for sectors like mining, urban planning, and disaster mitigation. The two-week course combines theoretical sessions with hands-on fieldwork, ensuring trainees gain actionable insights.
“This program is a timely response to the evolving demands of the earth science industry,” said Dr. Prakash Kumar, Director of NGRI, in a statement on the institute’s portal. “By empowering unemployed youth and professionals with cutting-edge geophysical skills, we are not only fostering employability but also contributing to national goals of sustainable development and innovation.”
Targeting Key Demographics and Industry Needs
The training is particularly geared toward postgraduate students facing unemployment in STEM fields, as well as mid-career professionals seeking upskilling. With India’s youth population driving the need for job-oriented education, NGRI’s initiative comes at a pivotal moment. The program emphasizes practical applications, such as using geophysical techniques for groundwater assessment and geohazard mapping—areas where India faces pressing challenges due to climate change and urbanization.
Enrollment details, including application forms, are available through NGRI’s Human Resource Development Group (HRDG) portal. While specific participant numbers for this session were not disclosed, similar past programs have attracted dozens of applicants, with a focus on inclusivity and merit-based selection. The closing date for applications was prior to the program’s start, but NGRI encourages interested individuals to monitor their website for upcoming sessions.
This launch builds on NGRI’s broader skill development portfolio, which includes courses in thermal geophysics, rock mechanics, and paleomagnetism. As per CSIR-NGRI’s records, these initiatives have trained hundreds of individuals, many of whom have secured positions in academia, government agencies, and private sectors like oil and gas exploration.
Alignment with National Priorities
The program underscores India’s commitment to the “Skill India” mission, launched in 2015 to train over 400 million people by 2022—a target that continues to evolve. By integrating geophysical expertise with national priorities, NGRI is positioning itself as a key player in building a resilient economy. Experts note that near-surface geophysics is gaining traction globally, with applications in renewable energy projects and environmental conservation, making this training a gateway to high-demand careers.
As the program progresses through its first week, participants in Hyderabad are already engaging in field exercises, applying techniques to real-world scenarios. NGRI plans to evaluate outcomes through assessments and feedback, potentially expanding the curriculum based on industry input.
– Raja Aditya
