Context:
India has recently named three significant underwater structures in the Indian Ocean as Ashoka, Chandragupt, and Kalpataru. These names reflect the nation’s expanding role in marine science and its dedication to exploring and understanding this crucial body of water. The proposal for these names came from India and received approval from the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), highlighting a collaborative effort in maritime naming and research. This move underscores India’s strategic interest and active participation in oceanographic studies.
Relevance:
GS I: Geography
Dimensions of the Article:
- Underwater Structures Related to the Indian Southern Ocean Research Programme:
- Historical Figures – Ashoka and Chandragupta Maurya:
- International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)
- UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
Underwater Structures Related to the Indian Southern Ocean Research Programme:
- Initiation and Oversight: Launched in 2004, this research is coordinated by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR).
- Research Focus: It investigates bio-geochemistry, biodiversity, and hydrodynamics among other oceanic phenomena.
- Structure Names: A total of seven underwater structures, including recent additions in the Indian Ocean, bear names predominantly derived from notable Indian scientists or other names suggested by India.
Previously Identified Structures:
- Raman Ridge: Identified in 1951 by a US oil vessel and recognized in 1992, this ridge honors Physicist and Nobel Laureate Sir CV Raman.
- Panikkar Seamount: Discovered by the research vessel Sagar Kanya in 1992 and named in 1993, this feature is dedicated to NK Panikkar, a distinguished oceanographer.
- Sagar Kanya Seamount: Named following its discovery during the 22nd cruise of the research vessel Sagar Kanya in 1986.
- DN Wadia Guyot: Named in 1993 after geologist DN Wadia following its discovery in 1992.
Recently Designated Structures:
- Ashoka Seamount: Found in 2012 and mapped as an oval structure covering about 180 sq km, this was identified with assistance from the Russian vessel Akademik Nikolay Strakhov.
- Kalpataru Ridge: Discovered in 2012, this ridge spans approximately 430 sq km and is recognized for its potential contribution to marine biodiversity.
- Chandragupt Ridge: A long structure covering 675 sq km, discovered in 2020 by the Indian research vessel MGS Sagar.
Historical Figures – Ashoka and Chandragupta Maurya:
- Chandragupta Maurya (350–295 BCE): Founder of the Maurya dynasty, he established a vast empire based in Magadha, utilizing strategic guidance from his advisor Chanakya (Kautilya) to overthrow the Nandas. Later, he renounced his throne to follow Jain teachings under Bhadrabahu.
- Ashoka: Known as the third monarch of the Mauryan dynasty, ruling around 269 BC, Ashoka is celebrated for his propagation of Dhamma and the expansion of Buddhism. His reign is distinctly marked by his edicts engraved on rocks and pillars, identifying him as Priyadasi and Devanampiya.
International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)
- Established in 1921, the IHO serves as an intergovernmental body focusing on improving navigation safety and marine environmental protection.
- India is an active member of the IHO, contributing to its various initiatives.
- Primary Objectives:
- Coordination: Oversees the activities of national hydrographic offices to ensure coherence and cooperation.
- Standardization: Aims for the highest uniformity in nautical charts and documents.
- Methodological Advancements: Promotes the use of reliable and efficient methods in hydrographic surveys.
- Scientific Progression: Advances the field of hydrography and descriptive oceanography techniques.
UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
- The IOC enhances global cooperation in marine sciences and supports developments in ocean observation, science, tsunami warnings, and promotes ocean literacy.
- With 150 member states including India (a member since 1946), the IOC plays a crucial role in forwarding UNESCO’s mission to foster science and its applications towards societal benefits.
- Coordinates the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030), also known as the “Ocean Decade,” aiming to bolster ocean science and sustainability.
-Source: Indian Express
