Three underwater structures in the Indian Ocean were named as Ashoka, Chandragupt, and Kalpataru, which reflect India’s growing influence in marine science and its commitment to exploring and understanding the Indian Ocean.This naming was proposed by India and approved by the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) and UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).
International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO)
- It is an intergovernmental consultative and technical body established in 1921 to enhance navigation safety and protect the marine environment.
- India is a member of the IHO.
Objectives
- Coordinating the activities of national hydrographic offices.
- Achieving the highest possible uniformity in nautical charts and documents.
- Promoting the adoption of reliable and efficient methods for conducting and utilising hydrographic surveys.
- Advancing the sciences of hydrography and the techniques used in descriptive oceanography.
UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
- It promotes international cooperation in marine sciences, capacity development, ocean observations and services, ocean science, tsunami warning, and ocean literacy.
- It has 150 member states, and India has been a member since 1946.
- The IOC’s work contributes to UNESCO’s mission to promote the advancement of science and its applications for economic and social progress.
- The IOC is coordinating the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030, also known as the “Ocean Decade.”
Key Facts About the Underwater Structures
Background and Significance
- The discoveries of these underwater structures are part of the Indian Southern Ocean Research Programme, initiated in 2004, with the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) as the nodal agency.
- The program aims to study various aspects including bio-geochemistry, biodiversity, and hydrodynamics.
Total Structures
- Seven structures, including the recently added ones in the Indian Ocean, are now named primarily after Indian scientists or based on names proposed by India.
Previously Named Structures
- Raman Ridge (accepted in 1992): It was discovered in 1951 by a US oil vessel. It was named after Physicist and Nobel Laureate Sir CV Raman.
- Panikkar Seamount (accepted in 1993): It was discovered in 1992 by India research vessel Sagar Kanya. It is named after NK Panikkar, a renowned oceanographer.
- Sagar Kanya Seamount (accepted in 1991): For its successful 22nd cruise in 1986 leading to its discovery, a seamount was named after the research vessel Sagar Kanya itself.
- DN Wadia Guyot: It was named after geologist DN Wadia in 1993 when an underwater volcanic mountain (guyot), was discovered in 1992 by Sagar Kanya.
Recently Named Structures
- Ashoka Seamount: It was discovered in 2012. It is in an oval-shaped structure spanning approximately 180 sq km and was identified using the Russian vessel Akademik Nikolay Strakhov.
- Kalpataru Ridge: It was discovered in 2012. This elongated ridge covers an area of 430 sq km and may play a critical role in supporting marine biodiversity.Experts believe that this ridge could have provided essential support for marine life by offering habitat shelter and food sources for various species.
- Chandragupt Ridge: This ridge is an elongated structure covering 675 sq km. It was identified in 2020 by the Indian research vessel MGS Sagar.
Ashoka and Chandragupta
Chandragupta Maurya (350–295 BCE)
- He was the Emperor of Magadha and the founder of the Maurya dynasty, which established a significant empire centred in Magadha.
- He took advantage of the decline and weakness of the Nandas and overthrew the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty, Dhanananda with the help of Chanakya (Kautilya) and crowned himself as the emperor.
- He gave up his throne and became a disciple of Jain teacher Bhadrabahu.
Ashoka
- He was the third king (after Chandragupta Maurya and Bindusara) of the Mauryan dynasty and ruled around 269 BC.
- Ashoka’s policy of Dhamma and efforts to spread Buddhism are significant aspects of his rule.
- He adopted the titles of Priyadasi and Devanampiya, which can be seen in his Rock and Pillar edicts.
Kalpataru
- “Kalpataru” is a Sanskrit term that translates to “wish-fulfilling tree.” In Hindu mythology, it is often associated with a divine tree that grants wishes and desires to those who seek its blessings. The concept symbolises abundance, prosperity, and the fulfillment of dreams.