On the morning of 7th August 2023, the humanities stream of classes 11th and 12th were taken to an educational excursion during school hours, outside the bounds of RKK. We, the students, brimmed with excitement when we were informed that we would get to witness the inauguration of a Geo-Heritage Site in our very own Mehrangarh fort. Abuzz with the zeal to learn, at 10 am we boarded our buses and set-off towards our destination.
Upon reaching the fort, we were met with students of various schools proudly waving the Indian national flag, and we joined them in their loud chants of 'Vande Mataram' and 'Jai Hind' with overflowing patriotism. The event was an initiative of 'Aazadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav', put forth by the government of India for completion of 75 years of independence of our country. We were then greeted by the members of the Geological Survey of India, Western Branch, Jaipur, who gave us a preview of what was to come.
Afterwards, we were led to Rao Jodha Marg where His Highness Maharaja Gaj Singhji (the chief guest of the event) inaugurated the Geo-Heritage site. With the celebratory mood continuing, we then headed towards the location of the main event, where the guests and speakers enlightened us about the spectacle that sits in Mehrangarh fort.
Approximately 75 crore years ago, in the Precambrian Age, a volcanic eruption led to the formation of the Malani Igneous Suite, which is one of a kind and of great importance to our heritage. In contact with this is the Marwar sandstone which was created around 65 crore years ago, thus creating an enormous geological time gap within the two stones. This is a very interesting feat and thus comprises two of Rajasthan's Geo-Heritage sites in the same place.
Speakers such as Dr. Shiv Singh Rathore and Dr. Ram Jeevan also informed us that the Malani Igneous Suite - Marwar Contact is a spectacle for geo-tourism in the country, and they also discussed with us the importance of geo-conservation and knowledge about the heritage that surrounds us.
With 90 Geo-Heritage sites in India, and 13 in Rajasthan, the speakers also passionately expressed their belief that the first ever Geological Park of India should be built in Jodhpur. The students cheered and showed their willingness to pursue this endeavor.
Then we heard the encouraging words of His Highness Maharaja Gaj Singhji, who instilled in us pride for living in such an important city, and motivated us to strive to always conserve our heritage.
Around 12:45 am, after the vote of thanks by Sri Devendar Singh, the students and teachers were handed out delicious refreshments. Then we made our way back to RKK, our minds full with inspiration and wisdom, our hearts proud and heads held high. It was a truly enriching experience that we were awarded, and we were truly privileged to have been able to witness history in the making.
