The Indian Ministry of Mines has recently proposed a draft bill aimed at the preservation and maintenance of geo-heritage sites and geo-relics of national importance. This move comes as part of an initiative to aid geological studies, education, research, and awareness. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has already identified 32 geo-heritage sites in need of this protection, including several that are currently in stages of disrepair.
Understanding the Draft Geo-heritage Sites and Geo-relics Bill
The bill seeks to define and preserve geological sites and relics that hold significant historical or scientific interest. Geoheritage sites refer to locations containing geo-relics, phenomena, stratigraphic type sections, geological structures, and geomorphic landforms. Adjacent land necessary for conservation or access to these sites is also included under this definition.
In comparison, geo-relics are defined as materials of geological significance or interest, such as sediments, rocks, minerals, meteorites, and fossils. Under the bill, GSI will have the authority to acquire geo-relics for their preservation and maintenance.
Central Government Authority and Compensation Plans
The proposed bill would empower the Central Government to declare a geoheritage site as nationally important. This action would be governed by the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (RFCTLARR Act).
Additionally, the act provisions for compensation to the owner or occupier of land who suffers loss or damage due to exercises under this act. The market value of any affected property will be determined based on the principles laid out in the RFCTLARR Act.
Construction Prohibition and Penalties
The proposed bill restricts construction or renovations within geoheritage sites, except for efforts related to the site’s preservation or maintenance or any public work deemed essential to the public.
Penalties for violations, including destruction, removal, defacement, or disobedience of instructions from the GSI Director General at a geoheritage site, have also been specified. Offenders may face up to six months’ imprisonment, fines up to 5 lakh, or both. Ongoing infractions may attract an additional fine of up to 50,000 per day.
Concerns with the Draft Bill
Despite the initiative’s intentions, concerns over the distribution of power within the bill have been raised. The GSI’s authority to acquire geological materials and sites of significance could potentially lead to conflicts with local communities over land acquisition.
About the Geological Survey of India (GSI)
The GSI, established in 1851 primarily to locate coal deposits for the Railways, has evolved into a global-recognized geo-scientific organization and a critical repository of geo-science information for various sectors in India. Its primary responsibilities include creating and updating national geo-scientific information and conducting mineral resource assessments. The GSI currently serves as an attached office to the Ministry of Mines and maintains its headquarters in Kolkata, with six regional offices across India.
The Way Forward
In addition to protecting areas of geological interest, there is a need for a law that specifically safeguards sites of geo-heritage value. This stems from India being a signatory to the UNESCO Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage since 1972.
