BEIJING, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang on Friday urged geologists to make full use of the country's rich resources and explore new energy in innovative ways.

    "Geological work makes the basic and pioneer industry for economic and social development and it affects the country's overall modernization... We should mainly depend on our own power to increase energy supply," said Li at the ceremony for the country's top geological science awards.

    A total of 14 geologists from the geological exploration, research and education fields received the 11th Li Siguang Geological Science Award.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang (R) meets with winners of the Li Siguang Geological Science Award in Beijing, capital of China, on Oct. 23, 2009

The award is named after China's leading geologist Li Siguang, founder of China's geomechanics.

    Oct. 26 marks the 120th anniversary of Li Siguang, whose research led to the discovery of China's major natural gas and oilfields.

    Li Keqiang said geologists, especially those doing fieldwork, shoulder arduous missions and suffer tough outdoor conditions.

    He urged related organizations to take care of their life and work and create favorable environment for the innovation in geological science and technology.