Syllabus
GS Paper 1 – Salient Features of World Physical Geography; Important Geophysical phenomena (earthquakes, tsunami, volcanoes, cyclones); Geographical features and location;
Context
The article discusses India’s abysmal Geological conservation
Source
The Hindu| Editorial dated 27th June 2024
Read the rocks to improve India’s geological literacy
India’s diverse geological landscape, ranging from towering peaks to coastal plains, is a testament to its tumultuous geological past. Despite the educational and heritage value of these geo-sites, geological conservation in India has not gained significant traction, leading to the destruction of many valuable sites.
India’s Geological Heritage
- Variety of Landscapes
- India’s terrain includes the Himalayas , the world’s highest mountain range, and coastal plains, representing a vast range of geological formations.
- Geological Features
- The country is home to various types of rocks, minerals, and unique fossil assemblages that reflect its complex geological history.
- Scientific Interpretation
- These geological features provide insights into the earth’s history and the processes that shaped the Indian subcontinent over billions of years.
- Examples of Geo-Heritage Sites:
- Dhala Crater (Madhya Pradesh): This ancient crater, dating between 1.5 and 2.5 billion years old, is a significant geological site providing evidence of a massive celestial impact.
- Lonar Crater (Maharashtra): Originally thought to be around 50,000 years old, recent studies suggest this crater may be approximately 576,000 years old, offering important geological insights.
Importance of Geo-Heritage
- Educational Value
- Geo-heritage sites serve as natural classrooms where people can learn about geology, earth science, and the planet’s evolutionary history.
- Non-Cultural Heritage
- These geological sites are considered part of India’s natural heritage, distinct from cultural heritage, highlighting the importance of preserving natural history.
- Research and Discovery
- Geological heritage sites often provide unique opportunities for scientific research, leading to new discoveries about the Earth’s past, the evolution of life, and natural resources.
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Many geological sites are also home to unique ecosystems and species, making their preservation crucial for biodiversity conservation.
- Tourism and Recreation
- Well-preserved geological heritage sites can attract tourists, boosting local economies through eco-tourism and creating jobs in related sectors such as hospitality, guiding, and education.
India’s Geo-Conservation Efforts
- Biological Diversity Act 2002
- This act has been effective in protecting biodiversity and could serve as a model for geo-conservation legislation.
- Geological Survey of India (GSI)
- The GSI has identified and notified 34 geological monuments.
- GSI’s chief role includes providing objective, impartial and up-to-date geological expertise and geoscientific information of all kinds, with a focus on policy-making decisions, and commercial and socio-economic needs.
- 2009 Bill
- A proposed National Commission for Heritage Sites aimed to implement UNESCO’s World Heritage Convention but was withdrawn after being referred to the Standing Committee.
- 2022 Draft Bill
- The Ministry of Mines drafted a Bill for preserving geo-heritage sites, but there has been no progress since its introduction.
Lack of Geo-Conservation Efforts
- Destruction of Sites
- Many important fossil-bearing sites have been lost due to urban development and real estate projects, leading to irreversible damage.
- Stone Mining
- Stone mining activities, which cover more than 10% of India’s land area, have significantly contributed to the destruction of geological features.
- Low Public Awareness
- There is a general lack of awareness among the public about the importance and value of geological heritage sites
- Absence of Geo-Conservation Legislation
- Unlike biodiversity conservation, there is no specific and specialized legislation in India for the protection and preservation of geological heritage sites.
- Ineffective Regulatory Measures
- The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has notified 34 geological monuments but lacks the regulatory powers to enforce preservation measures.
International Recognition and Efforts
UNESCO’s Role
- 1991 Symposium
- The ‘First International Symposium on the Conservation of our Geological Heritage’ emphasized the importance of geological heritage and endorsed the creation of geo-parks.
- Geo-Parks
- Geo-parks are designated areas that preserve unique geological features and educate the public about their significance.
- There are 169 Global Geoparks across 44 countries.
- UNESCO Guidelines
- UNESCO has established guidelines for creating and managing geo-parks, providing a framework for countries to follow.
Global Examples
- National Parks : Countries like Canada, China, Spain, the United States, and the United Kingdom have successfully developed geo-heritage sites into national parks.
Recommendations for conservation
- Inventory Creation
- Compile a comprehensive list of all potential geo-sites in India, expanding beyond the 34 currently identified by the GSI.
- Legislation
- Develop and enact geo-conservation laws similar to the Biological Diversity Act 2002 to ensure legal protection for geo-heritage sites.
- National Geo-Conservation Authority
- Establish an authority akin to the National Biodiversity Authority, ensuring it operates independently and without excessive bureaucracy, to support researchers and private collectors.
Conclusion
India’s rich geological heritage requires immediate and sustained conservation efforts. Creating an inventory of geo-sites, enacting appropriate legislation, and establishing a dedicated geo-conservation authority are essential steps to preserve these natural laboratories for future generations. Such measures will ensure that India’s geological legacy is protected and appreciated, promoting greater geological literacy and respect for the natural world.
Related PYQ
Describe the characteristics and types of primary rocks. [ UPSC Civil Services Exam – Mains 2022]
Practice Question
Discuss the significance of geological heritage sites in India and the challenges associated with their conservation. [250 words]