Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), inaugurated the School on Geochronology Techniques – 2025 at the Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC), New Delhi. During his address, Dr. Ravichandran urged young researchers to enhance their technical skills in sample preparation and modern instrumentation while emphasizing the significance of scientific interpretation and its alignment with national goals such as Viksit Bharat 2047.
Technical Skill Development and Scientific Interpretation
The School encourages researchers to cultivate not only technical expertise but also develop the ability to interpret data meaningfully. Dr. Ravichandran stressed the importance of self-reliance through indigenous technologies and datasets and called for collaborative research and peer learning to enrich the country’s knowledge base.
Significance of Geochronology
Geochronology, the science of determining the age of rocks and archaeological artifacts, plays a crucial role in understanding Earth’s history, natural resource mapping, and addressing environmental challenges including climate change and natural hazards. Dr. Ravichandran cited Antarctic studies as an example of how geochronology reveals past environmental and climate processes, linking geological changes to contemporary issues such as resource management and climate resilience.
Capacity Building and Infrastructure
Dr. N. Khare, Advisor and Programme Head, SAGE MoES, praised IUAC for its advanced analytical capabilities and hands-on training provided to researchers. He highlighted that over 9,000 samples have been analyzed using accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and other sophisticated instruments. IUAC’s facilities are vital for advancing research in earth dynamics, continental evolution, and environmental science.
Inclusivity and Future Support
The Secretary also underlined equity, diversity, and inclusion as pillars in India’s scientific growth, urging participants to maintain close engagement with IUAC and MoES for continued academic and professional development. This initiative aligns with India’s goals for scientific progress benefiting all societal sections.
Program Details
The week-long school includes lectures, hands-on training, facility demonstrations, and discussions led by eminent experts. The program aims to train youth in radiocarbon dating, U-Pb dating, cosmogenic nuclide dating, and advanced geochemical methods, supporting India’s position as a key contributor to global earth science research.
Conclusion: Geochronology Techniques
The School on Geochronology Techniques – 2025 strengthens India’s capabilities in earth sciences, fostering scientific excellence aligned with national development objectives. It equips researchers for impactful contributions in understanding Earth’s processes, environmental challenges, and sustainable resource management.
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Source: PIB
