Madhya Pradesh Set to Host India's First UNESCO Geopark
Dinosaur Fossil National Park located in Bagh, Madhya Pradesh
India is on the verge of attaining its first UNESCO Global Geopark, a significant achievement that underscores the nation’s rich geological heritage and the efforts to garner international recognition for the same. The focal point of this effort is the Dinosaur Fossil National Park located in Bagh, Madhya Pradesh, a site of profound paleontological significance. This site stands out not only as the oldest dinosaur site in Asia but also as a repository of diverse fossils, including those of dinosaurs with Indian ancestry.
Key Highlights of the Dinosaur Fossil National Park
• The park houses Asia’s oldest dinosaur fossils, featuring an array of finds such as footprints, sauropod bones, and a complete nest with dinosaur eggs.
• It also contains fossils of sharks, trees, and other marine organisms, painting a vivid picture of the prehistoric ecosystem.
• The discovery of a perfectly preserved dinosaur egg by amateur explorers in 2006 marked the beginning of significant paleontological findings in the area.
Efforts Toward UNESCO Global Geopark Status
• The initiative to secure the UNESCO Global Geopark tag is being spearheaded by Dr. Satish C. Tripathi of The Society of Earth Scientists, with the aim of completing the necessary preparatory work by October of the following year.
• The Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Development Board is actively supporting this endeavor, highlighting the collective effort to promote geodiversity and conservation.
• This pursuit is motivated by the recognition that, despite its vast geological heritage, India has yet to establish a UNESCO Global Geopark, a status enjoyed by several smaller nations.
Global Context and Significance
• Currently, there are 161 UNESCO Global Geoparks spread across 44 countries worldwide, with China leading with 41 Geoparks.
• These Geoparks serve not just as areas of significant geological importance but also as platforms for educating the public about the importance of preserving our planet’s geodiversity and engaging local communities in these efforts.
The effort to secure UNESCO Global Geopark status for the Dinosaur Fossil National Park in Bagh is a testament to India’s dedication to preserving and promoting its geological heritage on a global stage. This initiative not only aims to enhance the conservation of precious paleontological sites but also seeks to bolster eco-tourism and educational opportunities, contributing to the broader goals of sustainable development and cultural preservation.
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