The Department of Geology and Mines (DGM) has two divisions – Geological Survey of Bhutan (GSB) and Mining Division. Prior to the establishment of the GSB in April 1981, most of the geologic mapping and mineral exploration activities in the country were undertaken by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) who continued their work concomitantly with the GSB until their exit in 2002. The Mining Division of the then Department of Trade and Mines was merged with Geological Survey of Bhutan on February 8, 1988 to create the present Department of Geology and Mines. In order to support two divisions, the department has other sections including Drilling, Laboratory (Geochemical and Geotechnical), and Survey & Cartography.

Currently, there are ten geologists and five mining engineers in the department. Mr. Dorji Wangda, the Director, is the head of the department. Mr. Yeshi Dorji and Mr. Sangay Gyaltsen head the Geological Survey of Bhutan and Mining Division, respectively.

Although not limited to the following, the roles of the department include geologic mapping, mineral exploration, geotechnical investigations, and other services related to geosciences. The department is activley involved in time series monitoring of glaciers in nothern frontiers of the Bhutan Himalaya and risk assessment for glacial lake outburst flood (glof). The department does various other studies related to landslides, neotectonics, seismicity, and other things which constitute geo-hazards. The Mining Division is responsible for inspection and regulation of various mines to ensure environment friendly mining practices in the country.