Varsha Ashok Aglawe becomes first woman GSI Director General in 176-year history
Varsha Ashok Aglawe has been appointed as the 54th Director General of the Geological Survey of India, becoming the first woman to lead the 176-year-old institution. She plans to prioritize critical mineral exploration, mineral security, and advanced geoscientific research during her tenure.
Why it matters
This appointment marks a historic milestone for gender representation in Indian scientific leadership and signals a strategic focus on national mineral security.
The Geological Survey of India on Friday (July 31, 2026) said Varsha Ashok Aglawe has assumed charge as its 54th director general, becoming the first woman to head the country's premier geoscientific organisation in its 176-year history.
Ms. Aglawe, a palaeontologist with over three decades of experience, succeeds Asit Saha, who served as the GSI director general for two years.
She joined GSI in 1992 after a stint with the Indian Bureau of Mines. Ms. Aglawe recently served as the additional director general and head of department, eastern region, in Kolkata.
On taking charge, she said GSI would align its programmes with the government's priorities on critical mineral exploration and mineral security.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in