The Indian government has recently taken a significant step towards recognising the country’s geological heritage by submitting ten geological sites to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for consideration as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Currently, India boasts 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, none of which are geological. This initiative seeks to change that by ensuring these important sites receive the global recognition they deserve.
India is home to around 100 geo-heritage sites, of which 32 are already declared National Geological Monuments. However, unlike UNESCO heritage monuments, these geological sites lack formal legal protection. Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao has stressed the urgent need for legislative measures to safeguard these treasures, citing the Geo Heritage Sites and Geo-relics Bill, 2022, which is in the process of being finalised. Once enacted, this bill will establish a framework to protect India’s geological assets from neglect and degradation.
Among the geological sites proposed for recognition are notable locations such as the Lunar Crater in Maharashtra, Bhedaghat in Madhya Pradesh, and Gandikota Gorge in Andhra Pradesh. Although these sites are popular tourist destinations, their immense geological importance often goes unnoticed. It is hoped that through efforts like the Geo Heritage Sites and Geo-relics Bill, as well as collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and international organisations, these sites will gain both national and global recognition.
India’s geological treasures are not confined to tourism but also hold significant scientific value. The International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) has already acknowledged several sites in Sikkim for their geological significance. Mr. Rao highlighted that with the right support, India could have at least two fully established geoparks in the coming years. These geoparks would contribute to the preservation of India’s geological heritage while promoting sustainable development and educational opportunities in the regions where they are located.
The UNESCO Global Geopark designation, introduced under the International Geopark Programme (IGGP) in 2015, recognises sites of outstanding geological significance and their cultural connections to the land. With 213 UNESCO Global Geoparks across 48 countries, these sites have become hubs for geo-tourism, driving local economic growth and fostering community engagement. India, however, is yet to have a single UNESCO Global Geopark. Mr. Rao has appealed to UNESCO for assistance in securing recognition for Indian sites as Global Geoparks.
The potential benefits of such recognition extend far beyond international prestige. These geoparks would not only highlight the geological past of the regions but also strengthen local economies through tourism and education. By raising awareness of the geological and cultural importance of these sites, India aims to celebrate its natural heritage while ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Through coordinated government initiatives, active local participation, and international support, India’s geological sites stand poised to receive the global recognition they merit. Such recognition would not only enhance the nation’s cultural heritage but also foster economic growth and contribute to a broader understanding of Earth’s geological history.