Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development Sunil Handunnetti says a new Investigations and Raids Unit will be established within the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of Sri Lanka’s mineral resources.

The announcement was made during a special discussion held today (28) at the GSMB headquarters in Nawala, attended by officials of the Bureau and the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development.

The GSMB, which was previously under the Ministry of Environment, was brought under the purview of the Industries Ministry on October 18.

Established in 1903 as the Ceylon Mineral Survey, the GSMB is responsible for mineral exploration, licensing, geological data management, and laboratory services.

Minister Handunnetti noted that despite Sri Lanka’s rich mineral potential, its contribution to the economy remains minimal. He said a National Policy on Mineral Resources is being finalized to introduce clear guidelines and promote value addition within the sector.

During the visit, Minister Handunnetti also inspected the Bureau premises and was briefed on issues related to staff, licensing, legal procedures, and logistics. He said immediate steps would be taken to form the new Investigations and Raids Unit to address these challenges and prevent irregularities.

The meeting was also attended by Ministry Secretary Tilaka Jayasundara, GSMB Chairman Saman Jayasinha, Director General Geologist Deepani Weerakoon, Additional Secretaries of the Ministry, and senior GSMB officials. (Newswire)

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