Ganvir joined GSI on July 1, 1994, after completing his master's degree in geology from RTMNU University, Nagpur. During his career, he has served in scientific, technical and administrative positions across GSI's Central, North-Eastern and Northern regions. Before his appointment as Director General, he was Additional Director General and Head of Department at the Central Region in Nagpur, while also holding additional charge as National Mission Head-II.
His work has covered geological mapping, mineral exploration, engineering geology and multidisciplinary geoscientific studies. His assignments included thematic mapping in the Western Bastar Craton, gold and diamond exploration in Maharashtra's Sakoli Fold Belt, and geoscientific studies related to the conservation of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Bhimbetka Rock Shelters and Ellora Caves. He has also represented GSI at international forums, including the India–Peru Joint Working Group, the Russia–India Mining Sub-Group and IMARC 2022 in Australia.
As National Mission Head-II, Ganvir was associated with planning and monitoring multidisciplinary field programmes and nationwide mineral exploration. He contributed to a fivefold increase in investigations for critical and strategic minerals and the preparation of geological reports and exploration blocks for mineral auctions.
During his tenure, GSI handed over 359 Geological Reports and 377 Geological Memorandums. Of the blocks associated with these initiatives, 202 pertained to critical minerals, of which 40 have been auctioned. Additionally, 56 blocks under the Exploration Licence regime were handed over, with 11 auctioned under Tranches I and II.
As Director General, Ganvir has identified intensified exploration for critical and strategic minerals as a priority. The focus will be on integrated geoscientific investigations, advanced mineral prospectivity mapping and the systematic preparation of scientifically robust, auction-ready mineral blocks. These efforts are intended to strengthen India's mineral security, reduce import dependence and support the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
He has also emphasised the use of emerging technologies and advanced data analytics alongside field-based investigations to improve exploration accuracy and efficiency. Strengthening laboratory infrastructure, upgrading analytical capabilities and expanding offshore exploration will be other areas of focus.
GSI will continue its work in fundamental geoscientific research, landslide early warning, glacial and cryospheric studies, major infrastructure projects and hazard assessment. These activities support infrastructure planning, disaster preparedness, policymaking and sustainable development.
Ganvir has also highlighted the importance of strengthening institutional capabilities by empowering scientific personnel, encouraging innovation, recognising merit and performance, and improving coordination among National Missions, regional offices and state units. Efficient resource utilisation and timely delivery of scientific outputs will remain important priorities.
Under his leadership, GSI aims to build on its scientific legacy while responding to evolving mineral exploration requirements and technological developments. Its work will continue to support India's mineral resource development, infrastructure expansion, disaster resilience and the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
