This Department was started as a separate unit named as Geology Branch in the department of Industries and Commerce in 1957. Later, on 28-4-1983, this geology branch was restructured as a separate department called the Department of Geology and Mining.

Limestone in the districts of Salem, Ariyalur, Tirunelveli and Karur, Bauxite in Salem district, Quartz and Felspar in the districts of Salem, Namakkal and Karur are some of the notable identification made by the geologists of this Department.

The development of mineral resources such as Limestone, Magnesite, Graphite, Vermiculite, Granite, Quartz and Felspar, Lignite, Petroleum, Natural Gas, Atomic minerals has led to growth of mineral based industries such as cement industry, granite industry, creating employment opportunities and generation of revenue and bringing overall development of State economy.

Vision

The vision of this Department is to consolidate the leadership position of Tamil Nadu in the management of mineral wealth.

Mission

The mission is to undertake/ facilitate scientific exploration, optimal exploitation, judicious conservation and revenue maximisation in industry, eco and citizen friendly policy frame work.

Functions and responsibilities

This Department has 4 wings namely the Technical wing, Drilling wing, Chemical wing and Ministerial wing.

The Technical wing is entrusted with the tasks of mineral exploration and mineral administration such as approval of mining plan, granting mineral concessions, in accordance with Acts & Rules. Besides, offering geo-technical opinion in the hilly areas for stabilisation measures, seizures of vehicles transporting minerals clandestinely and arresting mining of minerals illegally.

The Drilling wing conducts drilling activities in pursuit of identification of minerals and samples taken during drilling are analysed by the Chemical wing that establishes the mineral resources and mineral reserves. The Ministerial wing is looking after the establishment matters.