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Read the rocks to improve India’s geological literacy
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Context
India's diverse geological features and landscapes, representing billions of years of Earth's history, are at risk due to lack of conservation efforts and public awareness. There is an urgent need to improve geological literacy and protect these non-cultural heritage sites.
Importance of Geological Conservation:
- Educational Value: Geo-heritage sites serve as natural laboratories, providing insights into Earth's history and fostering geological literacy.
- Scientific Significance: These sites preserve evidence of ancient life, celestial impacts, and geological processes, crucial for scientific research.
- Heritage Preservation: Geological features represent India's non-cultural heritage, showcasing the country's diverse morphology and evolutionary history.
Challenges in Geo-conservation in India:
- Lack of Legal Framework: Unlike biodiversity conservation, India lacks specific legislation for geo-heritage conservation.
- Destructive Activities: Development projects, real estate growth, and stone mining (covering over 10% of India's total area) threaten geological sites.
- Limited Authority: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has notified 34 geological monuments but lacks regulatory powers to implement preservation measures.
Global Progress and India's Position:
- International Initiatives: UNESCO has prepared guidelines for geo-parks, with 169 Global Geoparks across 44 countries as of now.
- Legislative Measures: Many countries have implemented laws to conserve geological heritage, while India, despite being a signatory, lacks such legislation.
- Failed Attempts: The 2009 National Commission for Heritage Sites Bill and the 2022 Draft Geoheritage Sites and Geo-relics Bill have not progressed significantly.
Way Forward for India:
- Inventory Creation: Develop a comprehensive inventory of prospective geo-sites beyond the 34 identified by GSI.
- Legislative Action: Frame geo-conservation legislation similar to the Biological Diversity Act 2002.
- Institutional Framework: Establish a 'National Geo-Conservation Authority' with independent observers, ensuring autonomy for researchers and private collectors.
UPSC Mains Questions:
Q. Discuss the importance of geological heritage conservation in India. How can the country balance development needs with the preservation of its geological features?
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