In a nation adorned with the world’s loftiest peaks and expansive coastal plains, India boasts a geological tapestry woven over billions of years. Yet, this rich geo-heritage faces a dire threat of neglect and destruction.
The Geological Tapestry Unraveling
India’s geological formations, teeming with diverse rocks, minerals, and fossil assemblages, narrate captivating tales of our planet’s evolution. These geological marvels offer invaluable insights into the Earth’s history, serving as living laboratories for scientific exploration.
However, despite the international strides in geo-conservation, India lags. Countless fossil sites have been sacrificed at the altar of development and real estate expansion. Rampant stone mining activities, covering over 10% of India’s landmass, exacerbate the issue.
Neglecting Our Backyard Treasures
Ironically, while we embark on ambitious missions to Mars in search of extraterrestrial life, we heartlessly obliterate invaluable evidence of early life in our own backyard. The ancient Dhala impact crater in Madhya Pradesh and the famed Lonar crater in Maharashtra stand as testaments to celestial collisions that occurred billions of years ago, yet they remain shrouded in obscurity.
Global Geo-conservation Efforts
In stark contrast to India’s apathy, the global community recognizes the significance of geological heritage. UNESCO’s 1991 declaration, emphasizing the shared responsibility of safeguarding our planet’s geological wonders, paved the way for the establishment of geoparks. These parks celebrate unique geological formations, educating the public and fostering an appreciation for Earth’s history.
Numerous countries, including Canada, China, Spain, the United States, and the United Kingdom, have embraced geo-conservation, integrating it into their national park systems. Europe boasts 73 geological heritage zones, while Japan’s meticulous conservation efforts have yielded remarkable results.
India’s Legislative Void
Despite being a signatory to international conventions, India lacks comprehensive legislation or policies dedicated to geo-heritage conservation. While the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified 34 geological monuments, it lacks the authority to enforce their protection. A recent incident in Varkala, Kerala, where a portion of a designated geological heritage cliff was demolished, exemplifies the perilous state of India’s geo-heritage.
Half-hearted Attempts and a Way Forward
Although the government has made sporadic attempts to address the issue, such as the introduction and subsequent withdrawal of the National Commission for Heritage Sites Bill in 2009, and the drafting of the Geoheritage Sites and Geo-relics (Preservation and Maintenance) Bill in 2022, concrete action remains elusive.
To rectify this dire situation, India must urgently prioritize the following:
- Comprehensive Inventory: Expand the existing inventory of geo-sites beyond the 34 identified by the GSI.
- Robust Legislation: Enact comprehensive geo-conservation laws, akin to the Biological Diversity Act 2002, to safeguard these irreplaceable treasures.
- National Geo-Conservation Authority: Establish an independent authority, modeled after the National Biodiversity Authority, to oversee and enforce geo-conservation measures.
By embracing these proactive measures, India can ensure the preservation of its geological heritage for generations to come. It is time to recognize that the rocks beneath our feet are not mere stones but chronicles of our planet’s epic journey through time.
Key Learnings
- India’s rich geological heritage is under threat due to neglect and destructive activities.
- Global efforts in geo-conservation, such as geoparks, offer valuable lessons for India.
- India lacks comprehensive legislation and policies for geo-heritage protection.
- Proactive measures, including a comprehensive inventory, robust legislation, and an independent authority, are crucial for safeguarding India’s geological treasures.
Advanced Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Abysmal | Extremely bad or poor |
| Assemblages | Collections or gatherings of things |
| Exacerbate | To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse |
| Obliterate | To destroy completely |
| Apathy | Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern |
| Perilous | Full of danger or risk |
| Sporadic | Occurring at irregular intervals or only in a few places; scattered or isolated |
| Elusive | Difficult to find, catch, or achieve |
Sunil Garnayak is an expert in Indian news with extensive knowledge of the nation’s political, social, and economic landscape and international relations. With years of experience in journalism, Sunil delivers in-depth analysis and accurate reporting that keeps readers informed about the latest developments in India. His commitment to factual accuracy and nuanced storytelling ensures that his articles provide valuable insights into the country’s most pressing issues.
