The vast expanse of the Indian Ocean has unveiled remarkable geological features recently named Ashok Seamount, Chandragupt Ridge, and Kalpataru Ridge. These names have been officially approved by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, highlighting a significant achievement in India’s maritime exploration.
Discovery and Location
- Southwest Indian Ridge: These undersea structures are situated along the Southwest Indian Ridge, a tectonic plate boundary in the Indian Ocean.
- Discovering Agency: The features were identified by India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), showcasing the nation’s advancements in oceanographic research.
Naming of Undersea Features
Understanding how undersea features are named sheds light on international cooperation and maritime governance.
Outside Territorial Sea
- Proposal Submission:
- Eligibility: Individuals and agencies can propose names for unnamed features located beyond a nation’s territorial waters.
- Guidelines Followed: Proposals must adhere to the IHO’s 2013 guidelines titled “Standardization of Undersea Feature Names”.
- Requirements for Naming:
- Identification: Detailed information about the feature’s character, extent, and precise position is mandatory.
- Review Process:
- IHO Sub-Committee on Undersea Feature Names (SCUFN) reviews and approves the proposed names to ensure they meet international standards.
Within Territorial Sea
- National Authority:
- Sovereignty: Countries have the right to name undersea features within their territorial waters.
- Guideline Compliance: Even within national jurisdictions, following the IHO’s 2013 guidelines ensures consistency and global recognition.
About the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)
- Establishment: Founded in 1921.
- Nature: An intergovernmental consultative and technical organization (India is a member).
- Role and Functions:
- Hydrography Excellence: Sets international standards for hydrography and nautical charting.
- Safe Navigation: Aims to ensure that the world’s seas, oceans, and navigable waters are properly surveyed and charted.
- Global Cooperation: Promotes uniformity in nautical charts and documents.
- United Nations Affiliation:
- Observer Status: Recognized as an observer at the UN.
- International Authority: Acknowledged as the competent international authority on hydrographic matters.
About the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
- Establishment: Created in 1961 and operates under UNESCO.
- Mission:
- Marine Science Cooperation: Promotes international collaboration in marine sciences to enhance understanding of the ocean.
- Resource Management: Aims to improve governance and sustainable management of ocean resources.
- Key Activities:
- Research Promotion: Facilitates research on ocean processes and phenomena.
- Disaster Preparedness: Develops early warning systems for ocean-related hazards like tsunamis.
- Capacity Building: Assists member states in developing their oceanographic capabilities.
GEBCO: General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans
- Joint Initiative: A collaboration between the IHO and the IOC of UNESCO.
- Objective:
- Bathymetric Data Collection: Compiling depth and shape information of the ocean floor globally.
- Ocean Mapping: Producing comprehensive maps and charts of the world’s oceans.
- SCUFN’s Role:
- Digital Gazetteer Maintenance: The GEBCO Sub-Committee on Undersea Feature Names (SCUFN) maintains a database of undersea feature names and their classifications.
- Standardization: Ensures uniform naming conventions for undersea features worldwide.
- Significance:
- Scientific Advancement: Aids in geological and environmental research.
- Maritime Safety: Enhances safe navigation by providing accurate seafloor maps.
Implications for India
The naming of these undersea features holds considerable importance for India:
- Strategic Advantage:
- Maritime Presence: Strengthens India’s presence and influence in the Indian Ocean region.
- Resource Exploration: Facilitates exploration of marine resources like minerals and hydrocarbons.
- Scientific Contribution:
- Ocean Research Leadership: Positions India as a key player in global oceanographic research.
- Environmental Monitoring: Enhances understanding of marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Cultural Significance:
- Heritage Reflection: Names like Ashok and Chandragupt honor India’s rich historical legacy.
Relevance for UPSC Exam Preparation
Understanding this topic is vital for several areas of the UPSC syllabus:
General Studies Paper I
- Geography:
- Physical Geography: Study of oceanographic features and tectonic movements.
- World Geography: Undersea feature mapping and its global significance.
General Studies Paper II
- International Relations:
- Global Institutions: Roles of IHO and IOC in international cooperation.
- Maritime Laws: Understanding conventions like UNCLOS.
General Studies Paper III
- Science and Technology:
- Advancements: India’s progress in marine technology and research.
- Innovation: Contributions to ocean mapping and data collection.
- Environment and Ecology:
- Marine Ecosystems: Impact of undersea features on biodiversity.
- Resource Management: Sustainable exploitation of marine resources.
Essay Paper
- Potential Topics:
- Ocean Exploration: The next frontier for India’s growth.
- International Cooperation: Balancing national interests with global responsibilities.
Key Takeaways
- International Recognition: India’s efforts in ocean exploration are gaining global acknowledgment.
- Strategic Importance: Enhances maritime security and resource management capabilities.
- Exam Edge: A multidisciplinary topic touching geography, international relations, science, and environment.
Additional Insights
- Technological Marvels:
- Survey Vessels: India’s use of advanced ships equipped with sonar and mapping technologies.
- Satellite Mapping: How remote sensing aids in detecting undersea features.
- Geopolitical Dynamics:
- Indian Ocean Region (IOR): The strategic contest among global powers in the IOR.
- Blue Economy: Leveraging ocean resources for sustainable economic growth.
Conclusion
The naming of Ashok Seamount, Chandragupt Ridge, and Kalpataru Ridge is more than a ceremonial act—it’s a testament to India’s growing prowess in oceanographic research and its commitment to contributing to global scientific endeavors. For UPSC aspirants, this topic offers a rich tapestry of insights spanning multiple disciplines, emphasizing the interconnectedness of geography, technology, and international relations.
