In a move that may enable online processing of the mining applications, the Karnataka government is in the process of preparing a geo database on GIS application.

The exercise would map mineralised zones and develop mineral atlas and data on existing leases. The department would digitise maps and other geological data and would procure cadastral maps, computers, related software and other infrastructure.

Based on GIS application system, the department of mines and geology of the state government has so far digitised 4,500 mining leases in Karnataka.

The Economic Survey of Karnataka for 2012-13 shows that the department had completed digitisation of 4,500 leases for various minerals in the state up to the end of October 2012.

The Survey, which was tabled in the Assembly recently, shows the main objective of the project is to delineate the mineral belts on various potential zones in the state by adopting remote sensing techniques marking the free hold areas for the benefit of the entrepreneurs.

The data will be fetched to the department website. The existing data displayed on the website will be utilised by industries for filing of online application for mining lease from elsewhere.

The department also intends to use advanced equipment such as GPS mounted magnetometer and high-end computers with software for proving the exploration data.