Category Archives: Business & Economy

NATIONAL: BEACON of INDIA INC. : Ratan Tata family tree: From Jamsetji Tata to Maya Tata, know all the members here

Ratan Tata Family tree: Here’s a look at the family lineage of the Tatas.

Ratan Tata complete family Tree: Ratan Naval Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai Wednesday night. He was admitted following age-related health issues and was undergoing treatment at the hospital. Tata, a beacon of India Inc, steered his group amid India’s economic liberalisation and, subsequently, guided its global expansion.

Conferred with the Padma Vibhushan, Tata was considered one of the greatest philanthropists in the country who touched lives of millions through his work in the field of healthcare, education, drinking water and many other areas.

Here’s a look at the family tree of the Tatas

Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group was born to Nusserwanji Ratan Tata and Jeevanbai Kavasji Tata, in 1939. apart from Jamsetji, Nusserwanji had four other children — Ratanbai, Maneckbai, Virbaiji, Jerbai.

Born into a family of Parsi priests, Jamsetji broke the tradition as he started his own trading firm in 1868 at a young age of 29. He started with a textile mill in central India in the 1870s. His vision later set the foundation for technical education in India and helped the nation to be counted among the industrialised nations.

Jamsetji married Hirabai Daboo and had three children — Sir Dorabji Tata, Dhunbai Tata and Sir Ratan Tata. 

Dorabji, the elder son of Jamsetji, was instrumental in translating his father’s vision into reality. It was under his leadership that the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust was created, propelling the Tata tradition of philanthropy. Jamsetji’s younger son, Ratan, was a philanthropist who created a trust to fund educational development, alleviate human sufferings and other public utility works.

Sir Ratan Tata married Navjbai Sett and adopted Naval H Tata. Naval married Sonoo Commisariat and had two sons — Ratan N Tata and Jimmy N Tata. But Naval and Soonoo divorced when Ratan N Tata was only 10 years old. Naval later married Simone Dunoyer and with her, had a son, Noel Tata. Noel is Ratan and Jimmy’s half brother.

While Ratan and Jimmy never married, Noel tied knot with Aloo Mistry, sister of late Cyrus Mistry, who served as Chairman of Tata Group. Noel and Aloo have three children — Leah Tata, Maya Tata and Neville Tata.

Neville is married to Manasi Kirloskar and together they have two children – Jamset Tata and Tiana Tata.

Again, Jeevanbai Kavasji Tata’s brother Dadabhai Kavasji Tata (adopted son of Kavasji Maneckji Tata) had a son with his wife Bhikhibai. Dadabhai’s son Ratanji Dadabhai Tata married a French woman Suzanne Briere. They had five children — Syla Petit, Jehangir Ratanji Dababhai Tata, Rodabeh Tata, Darab Tata and Jimmy Tata. 

Jehangir or JRD Tata, who went on to become Tata Chairman, pioneered civil aviation on the subcontinent in 1932 by launching the airline which is now known as Air India.

source/content: indianexpress.com (headline edited)

GLOBAL: WORLD’s HIGHEST: Ladakh gets world’s highest MACE Observatory, largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia

This observatory underscores India’s advancements in space and cosmic-ray research capabilities.

The Union Territory of Ladakh gets the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) observatory, the world’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located at an altitude of over 4,300 metres in Hanle.

This observatory underscores India’s advancements in space and cosmic-ray research capabilities.

Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty, the secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, officially inaugurated the MACE observatory here, an official spokesperson said.

Built indigenously by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) with support from the Electronics Corporation of India Limited and other Indian industry partners, the MACE is the largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia, he said.

The inauguration ceremony, held as part of the DAE’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, included the unveiling of commemorative plaques by Dr Mohanty at the Hanle site.

Addressing the importance of balancing tourism and scientific activities within the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), Additional Secretary Ajay Ramesh Sule encouraged the students to pursue career in science and technology.

BARC’s Physics Group Director, Dr SM Yusuf, underscored the MACE telescope’s significance in advancing India’s capabilities in space and cosmic-ray research.

A pictorial compilation documenting the MACE project journey was released during the ceremony.

Dr Mohanty also felicitated the village leaders, the school headmaster, and the lama of the Hanle Gompa.

The MACE telescope, observing high-energy gamma rays, will contribute to global efforts to study phenomena like supernovae, black holes and gamma-ray bursts, he said

He added it aims to foster international collaborations, bolstering India’s role in multimessenger astronomy.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

NATIONAL:WORLD’S LARGEST / HEALTHCARE: India has launched world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, says Minister J P Nadda

WHO SEARO Regional Director Saima Wazed underlined that the best antidote for crisis is cooperation and underscored the need for collaborative regional action to build on the public health gains and overcome new threats in the region.

India has launched the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana, which covers over 120 million families, providing an annual hospitalization benefit of USD 6,000 per family, said Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Monday.

“This expansion will benefit around 45 million families, including 60 million elderly population, by providing them free health insurance coverage. It underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring universal and inclusive healthcare for India’s growing elderly demographic,” said Nadda at the 77th session of the Regional Commission of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Southeast Asia Region, which kicked off here.  

Nadda, who was elected as the chairperson of the session, highlighted that the government has recently expanded the scheme to all citizens aged 70 years and above.   

Recognizing the growing public health challenges posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the Union Health Minister said “India is implementing the National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs since 2010 to address conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This initiative has led to the establishment of 753 NCD clinics, 356 Day Care Centers, and 6,238 Community Health Centers to focus on preventive measures at an early stage.”  

India as a lighthouse country in the digital health arena, is poised to share its Digital Public Infrastructure (DPIs) such as Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, e-Sanjeevani, Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP), SAKSHAM, etc. by providing technical and financial support through the Global Initiative on Digital Health – a WHO-managed network, launched during India’s G20 Presidency, he said.  

“Following the remarkable success of the CoWIN digital platform during the COVID-19 pandemic, India has conceptualized the online digital platform-UWIN, for the Universal Immunization Programme. The portal will register, track, and monitor all vaccination events,” he added at the three-day event.  

Understanding the important role that traditional and complementary medicine plays across numerous Southeast Asian member states, Nadda emphasized that India has backed the WHO in creating the Global Traditional Medicine Centre, aimed at promoting these systems on a global scale. 

“India’s experience in integrating this system with the conventional system of medicine has led to the provision of holistic healthcare, promoting overall well-being and expanding the range of healthcare services,” he added.  “Our Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs that are community Health & Wellness Centres are significant in providing comprehensive healthcare through both traditional and conventional systems of medicines, ensuring the physical and mental well-being of our citizens,” Nadda said. 

“We believe that collective experiences can drive transformative actions across countries. Health transcends borders, necessitating a holistic and collaborative approach. By learning from each other’s successes and challenges, we can enhance the resilience of health systems,” he said at the annual governing body meeting of WHO in the Region, which was attended by the member nations including Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Indonesia, the Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Timor-Leste. The SEARO region has 11 member nations, including India.  

He emphasized unity in addressing global challenges, fostering inclusive, human-centric growth, building trust by acknowledging aspirations, and harnessing each nation’s strengths for the global good.  

WHO SEARO Regional Director Saima Wazed underlined that the best antidote for crisis is cooperation and underscored the need for collaborative regional action to build on the public health gains and overcome new threats in the region. 

“In 1948, when the first Regional Committee for South-East Asia was formed, the infant mortality rate globally was around 147. Today it is 25. Then, the antibiotic age had just begun. Today, we are faced with antimicrobial resistance. Think of how far we have come, and how far we still have to go. And so, as we conquer old threats, we are faced with new ones. It is upon us to confront the perils of today, with the collective wisdom of all who came before us – and with the tools of the 21st century. This is why we are here today,” she said.  

In his message to the Regional Committee, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus lauded the Region for its many achievements in disease elimination and reiterated WHO continued support to Member States on addressing the challenges.  

“Notwithstanding your many successes, the region faces many challenges, as you know: the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and mental health; the unfinished business of reducing neonatal and under-5 mortality; the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance; inequitable access to health services and essential medicines; the continuing burden of tuberculosis,” he said.  

Ministers of Health, senior health officials, public health experts, and representatives from non-governmental organizations are attending the annual governing body meeting being held in New Delhi from October 7-9. 

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

NATIONAL: GI TAGS: Bodo Tribe’s Eight Products, Including ‘Aronai’, Secure GI Tags In Assam

In a major step towards preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Assam, eight products of the Bodo tribe, including the iconic ‘Aronai’, have secured Geographical Indication (GI) tags. This development not only acknowledges the unique craftsmanship of the Bodo community but also provides a boost to the local economy by safeguarding these products’ authenticity on a global platform.

The Bodo tribe, one of the largest indigenous groups in Northeast India, has a rich tradition of weaving and handicrafts. The GI tag will protect the intellectual property rights of these products, preventing unauthorized use and imitation, while also promoting the Bodo culture and heritage globally.

What is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a certification provided to products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. This certification ensures that only products produced in a specific region can be marketed using that name, thereby protecting the authenticity and traditional knowledge associated with the product.

For the Bodo tribe, receiving GI tags for these eight products is a recognition of their centuries-old craftsmanship, which has been passed down through generations. This certification not only adds economic value but also helps preserve the traditional techniques and cultural practices unique to the Bodo community.

The Eight Bodo Products That Secured GI Tags

The eight products from the Bodo community that have been awarded GI tags include:

  1. Aronai: The most iconic product of the Bodo tribe, Aronai is a traditional scarf or shawl that is an integral part of Bodo culture. It is worn during important ceremonies, festivals, and even as a daily accessory. Made from high-quality silk or cotton, the intricate weaving patterns and vibrant colors of Aronai symbolize the identity and pride of the Bodo people.
  2. Dokhona: A traditional attire worn by Bodo women, Dokhona is a long wrap-around dress made from woven silk or cotton. It is often adorned with colorful patterns and is considered an essential part of Bodo cultural festivals and ceremonies.
  3. Gamsa: A handwoven fabric used as a towel or wrap, Gamsa is a versatile product that reflects the Bodo tribe’s skilled weaving techniques. Known for its durability and fine craftsmanship, it is often used in everyday life and during cultural rituals.
  4. Bodo Mekhela: Mekhela, another traditional attire for women, consists of two pieces of cloth draped around the body. The Bodo version of Mekhela is known for its unique designs, rich fabric, and vibrant colors, making it a staple in Bodo women’s wardrobes during cultural celebrations.
  5. Jwmgra (Traditional Shawl): This traditional shawl is another product of Bodo weaving craftsmanship, often made from cotton or silk and used during formal and cultural events.
  6. Silk Shawls: Bodo silk shawls are renowned for their softness and intricate patterns. These shawls are often made from Assam silk, a high-quality material, and are worn on special occasions.
  7. Endi Shawls: Endi, or eri silk, is produced in Assam and is known for its eco-friendly production process. Bodo artisans weave this silk into beautiful shawls that are highly sought after for their warmth and comfort.
  8. Bodo Handloom Textiles: This includes a variety of fabrics woven by the Bodo community, showcasing their rich tradition of handloom weaving. These textiles are used to create traditional attire, accessories, and home décor items.

Cultural and Economic Impact of GI Tags

The GI tagging of these eight products is a momentous achievement for the Bodo community and the state of Assam. It not only provides legal protection to the products but also elevates the status of traditional Bodo crafts on the global stage. With this recognition, these products can now be marketed more effectively, both in India and internationally, which will boost tourism and economic opportunities for local artisans.

The Bodo tribe has long been recognized for their skilled weaving techniques, which are deeply embedded in their cultural identity. The GI tag helps in preserving these traditional crafts, encouraging younger generations to continue the legacy of their ancestors.

Boost to Assam’s Handloom and Handicraft Industry

The handloom and handicraft industry in Assam is a significant contributor to the state’s economy, employing thousands of artisans, particularly women. With the GI tagging of these products, the Bodo tribe’s artisans can now sell their crafts at premium prices, increasing their income and improving their livelihood. This recognition also opens doors for export opportunities, enabling these products to reach a broader audience worldwide.

The GI tags will also promote sustainable tourism in the region, as visitors are likely to be drawn to the rich cultural heritage and unique crafts of the Bodo tribe. Tourists who visit Assam for its natural beauty and wildlife will now have an added reason to explore the traditional Bodo textiles and handicrafts, further boosting the local economy.

While the GI tags are a significant achievement, there are challenges in ensuring that the benefits reach the artisans at the grassroots level. Efforts must be made to establish strong supply chains, promote these products in international markets, and provide artisans with the necessary training to maintain quality standards.

The government, along with local organizations, must work together to create marketing platforms and digital avenues for promoting these products globally. E-commerce platforms and artisanal fairs can be valuable tools in reaching a broader audience and ensuring that the GI-tagged products achieve their full potential.

The GI tagging of eight traditional products from the Bodo tribe of Assam, including the beloved Aronai, is a proud moment for the community and the entire state. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Bodo people and their contribution to India’s vibrant handloom and handicraft traditions. As these products gain international recognition, they will not only boost the local economy but also serve as symbols of pride and identity for the Bodo community.

source/content: boroktimes.com (headline edited)

GLOBAL: NATIONAL: INTERNATIONAL TRADE: India-UAE bilateral trade set to surpass $100 billion target before 2030. UAE remains India’s 03rd Largest Trade Partner and 02nd Largest Export Destination

The bilateral trade between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on track to surpass the $100 billion target well before 2030, underscored by a notable 12.7 per cent (year-on-year) increase, according to a report on Tuesday.

The UAE remains India’s third-largest trading partner and second-largest export destination (FY2022-23).

According to a report by Primus Partners, Bilateral trade reached $85 billion in FY 2022-23 and is expected to cross the 2030 target of $100 billion well before the expected timeline.

The India-UAE economic relationship strengthened with the recent visit of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to India. The two countries signed five MoUs, following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Crown Prince.

The India-UAE trade relations are entering a new era, driven by structural reforms like 2022 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) that have dismantled long-standing barriers.

“This shows how this trade growth is not only strengthening existing sectors like gems, jewellery, and IT but is also paving the way for emerging industries such as green energy and food security,” said Nilaya Varma, CEO and Co-founder of Primus Partners.

Both countries lead the path for key collaborative ventures, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as well as the India-Israel-UAE-US (I2U2) coalition.

The India-UAE economic relationship is set to be further cemented with initiatives like the implementation of a master dashboard to oversee critical infrastructure projects; establishment of a bilateral e-commerce marketplace for goods and services, potentially leveraging India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) model and creation of an online digital repository highlighting investable projects in identified strategic sectors,

Nader Haffar, Director of Primus Partners UAE, said that the bilateral relationship has evolved into a multifaceted partnership that is reshaping the future of regional and global trade.

“This synergy between two of the world’s fastest-growing economies is creating new opportunities, fostering innovation, and building a foundation for long-term prosperity that could serve as a global model for emerging market partnerships,” Haffar added.

Gems and jewellery, traditionally a cornerstone of trade, have seen increased activity under the CEPA. The metals, stones, gems, and jewellery sector is among India’s key exports to the UAE.

Additionally, India’s agricultural exports to the UAE, including cereals, sugar, fruits, vegetables, and tea, contribute significantly to the trade basket, helping to address the UAE’s food security objectives.

–IANS

source/content: in.investing.com (headline edited)

GLOBAL: NATIONAL: RANKING: India Ranks as Third Most Powerful Nation in Asia, Surpassing Japan in Asia Power Index

India has become the third most powerful nation in Asia, surpassing Japan in the Asia Power Index. The Asia Power Index report for 2024 indicated that strong post-COVID economic growth has led India to increase its economic capability by 4.2 points. The report also highlights that India performed well across all other resource measures, especially in future resources, where its score rose by 8.2 points. This growth suggests that India’s youthful population may deliver a demographic dividend in the decades to come, unlike many other countries in Asia.

India’s Diplomatic Influence has also risen in the Asia Power Index. In 2023, India increased its tempo of diplomatic activity, participating in the sixth-highest number of dialogues with countries included in the Asia Power Index. This helped India surpass Japan, reinforcing its status as the third-largest power in the index and reflecting its increasing geopolitical stature.

The Asia Power Index ranks 27 countries and territories based on their capacity to shape their external environment, with its scope reaching as far west as Pakistan, as far north as Russia, and as far into the Pacific as Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

source/content: newsonair.gov.in (headline edited)

GLOBAL: NATIONAL: TREATIES: India signs High Seas Treaty for fair, equitable sharing of benefits (BBNJ) Agreement

The treaty follows an inclusive, integrated, ecosystem-centric approach based on the precautionary principle and promotes best available scientific knowledge.

India has signed the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, which seeks to promote the conservation of marine genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits.

“India is proud to join the BBNJ Agreement, an important step towards ensuring that our oceans remain healthy and resilient,” external affairs minister S Jaishankar said in a post on X after singing the treaty at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Wednesday.

The agreement, or the High Seas Treaty, is an international accord under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The high seas cover areas nearly two-thirds (64%) of the ocean – almost half the planet’s surface. It includes some of the most ecologically vital, but critically threatened and least protected areas on earth; less than 1% of what is fully or highly protected.

The treaty aims to address the growing concerns over the long-term protection of marine biodiversity in the high seas. It sets precise mechanisms for the sustainable use of marine biological diversity through international cooperation and coordination. Parties cannot claim or exercise sovereign rights over marine resources derived from the high seas and ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits.

The treaty follows an inclusive, integrated, ecosystem-centric approach based on the precautionary principle and promotes using traditional knowledge and the best available scientific knowledge. It seeks to minimise impacts on the marine environment through area-based management tools and establishes rules for conducting environmental impact assessments.

In March 2023, after five years of negotiations, the world reached a significant milestone in efforts to stem global biodiversity decline when nations agreed to the new High Seas Treaty to protect ocean life. Once it has been ratified by at least 60 countries, the treaty will provide the legal framework to address many of the governance gaps that have plagued the ocean and provide a roadmap to conserve biodiversity areas beyond national jurisdictions.

According to the High Seas Alliance, following two decades of discussions, the implementing agreement to UNCLOS on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction – or High Seas Treaty – is the world’s first cohesive, international and legally binding framework to specifically protect high seas biodiversity.

At a workshop on the BBNJ in Chennai last month, PK Srivastava, an advisor to the Union earth sciences ministry, said the ministry will establish a dedicated institutional mechanism to oversee the developments regarding the agreement. “This authority will deal with the necessary regulations, studies, and other activities related to the treaty,” Srivastava said.

He emphasised the need for detailed discussions and modifications to existing legislation to ensure compatibility with the requirements for the effective implementation of the treaty. Srivastava said the Environment Protection Act could be used for the environmental impact assessment of the BBNJ Agreement.

source/content: hindustantimes.com (headline edited)

NATIONAL: IT & MANUFATURING / MADE IN INDIA : PM Modi launches indigenously developed Param Rudra Supercomputers

Showcasing India’s technological prowess, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched three Param Rudra supercomputers worth Rs 130 crore and developed indigenously as part of the National Supercomputing Mission.

The three supercomputers have been deployed in Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata to support cutting-edge scientific research.

“With Param Rudra Supercomputers and HPC system, India takes significant steps towards self-reliance in computing and driving innovation in science and technology,” PM Modi said while launching the supercomputers via video conferencing.

The Prime Minister also launched a High-Performance Computing (HPC) system for the fields of weather and climate.

Addressing the scientific community, PM Modi said there is no sector or industry which does not rely on technology and high-computing capability. He added that in this sphere, India’s share “should not be in bits and bytes but in terabytes and petabytes”.

“Therefore, this achievement proves that we are moving in the right direction at the right pace,” said the Prime Minister.

With the PARAM supercomputer, the Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC) will boost research in material science and atomic physics in New Delhi while the S.N. Bose Centre in Kolkata will focus on areas including physics, cosmology, and earth sciences.

Meanwhile, the Giant Metre Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Pune will use the supercomputer to explore astronomical phenomena such as Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs).

According to the government, the Param Rudra supercomputer incorporates the latest cutting-edge hardware and software technologies. A significant portion of its components were manufactured and assembled in India.

Param Rudra is capable of handling complex calculations and simulations at a very high speed. These homegrown and developed supercomputers are prime examples of India’s technological advancements. These are used for research in fields such as weather forecasting, climate modelling, drug discovery, materials science, and artificial intelligence (AI).

The country’s National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) has been set up to provide the country with supercomputing infrastructure to meet the increasing computational demands of academia, researchers, MSMEs, and startups.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

NATIONAL: IIMCAA Awards 2024: Anup Pandey wins journalist of the year trophy

Shagun Kapil won the agriculture reporter of the year, receiving a cash prize of ₹1 lakh.

 The Indian Institute of Mass Communication Alumni Association (IIMCAA) has officially announced the winners of the IIMCAA Awards 2024, recognising excellence in journalism, advertising, and public relations. The event was marked by the crowning of Anup Pandey as the ‘journalist of the year’, a title accompanied by a trophy, certificate, and a cash prize of ₹1.5 lakh.

In the agriculture reporter of the year category, Shagun Kapil emerged victorious, receiving a cash prize of ₹1 lakh. Other awardees, spanning diverse categories, were honored with trophies, certificates, and cash rewards of ₹50,000.

The winners across various categories were:

Rajat Mishra (Publishing Reporting)

Abhinav Goel (Broadcast Reporting)

Surabhi Singh (Producer)

Muhammad Sabith U M (Publishing Reporting in Indian Languages)

Shatarupa Samantaraya (Broadcast Reporting in Indian Languages)

Saransh Jain (Advertising)

Shillpi A Singh (PR)

Ofactor (Ad Agency)

Kaizzen (PR Agency)

The ‘Jury Special Mention’ category recognised noteworthy entries that narrowly missed out on the top honours. Awardees in this section included:

Abhishek Angad, Ritwika Mitra, Ashutosh Mishra, Manish Mishra, and Nidhi Tiwari (journalist of the year)

Diwash Gahatraj (agriculture reporting)

Parimal Kumar and Vishnukant Tiwari (broadcast reporting).

Rohan Kathpalia (producer of the year)

Supriya Sundriyal and Nikhil Swami (PR)

Distinguished attendees included former principal director general of PIB Kuldeep Singh Dhatwalia; ADG Raj Kumar; special commissioner of the Delhi government Sushil Singh; and Rahul Sharma, managing director of the US-India Business Council. The event was presided over by IIMCAA president Simrat Gulati, while executive president Gayatri Shrivastava hosted the ceremony.

During the event, a souvenir book featuring the profiles and accomplishments of the award winners was released by Awards Auditor Unni Rajen Shanker, Convenor Vineet Handa, Coordinator Puja Mishra, and General Secretary Deeksha Saksena.

source/content: hindustantimes.com (headline edited)

REGIONAL: SUBCONTINENT: NATIONAL: Survey that reshaped a sub-continent

In the early 19th century, a monumental scientific project began that would leave a profound mark on the Indian subcontinent.

Photo: SNS

In the early 19th century, a monumental scientific project began that would leave a profound mark on the Indian subcontinent. The Great Trigonometrical Survey of India, initiated in 1802, was not merely about cartography; it was a groundbreaking venture that reshaped the landscape of India through precision, innovation, and vision. Spearheaded by British infantry officer William Lambton under the East India Company, this survey transformed the understanding of the subcontinent’s geography and had far-reaching impacts on administration, economy and cultural heritage. The Great Trigonometrical Survey officially commenced on 10 April 1802, with the measurement of a crucial baseline near Madras (now Chennai). Major Lambton, who was tasked with leading this ambitious project, carefully selected a flat plain for the initial measurement.

The baseline stretched 7.5 miles (12.1 km) and was marked by St. Thomas Mount at the north and Perumbauk Hill at the southern end. This baseline was the first step in a meticulous process that aimed to map the vast Indian subcontinent with unprecedented accuracy. Lambton’s choice of a flat plain for the initial baseline was strategic. Accurate measurements were crucial for the success of the survey, and a flat, unobstructed baseline allowed for more precise calculations. The work began with the meticulous measurement of this baseline, which would serve as the foundation for the extensive triangulation network that followed. The Great Trigonometrical Survey utilized advanced trigonometric techniques to measure distances and angles across the vast expanse of India.

The method involved creating a network of triangles, using the baseline measurements as a reference point. By measuring angles and distances within these triangles, surveyors were able to map the terrain with remarkable precision. One of the most notable achievements of the survey was the accurate measurement of the meridian arc from the southern tip of India to Nepal. This endeavour required surveying through varied and challenging terrain, including the Himalayan mountain range. The precision achieved in this measurement allowed for the calculation of the Earth’s circumference with astonishing accuracy and contributed to global scientific knowledge. For the British East India Company, the survey was more than a scientific undertaking; it was a crucial tool for effective administration and control. The detailed maps produced by the survey enabled the British to manage the vast and diverse regions of India with greater efficiency.

Accurate geographical information facilitated better planning of infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, and irrigation systems. The survey’s precise maps were instrumental in the collection of land revenue, as they provided detailed information about land use and boundaries. This information was crucial for implementing administrative policies and managing the economic resources of the subcontinent. The improved accuracy in mapping also played a key role in the strategic planning of military campaigns and the consolidation of British rule across India. The detailed maps created by the Great Trigonometrical Survey had a transformative effect on the Indian economy. The accurate depiction of geographical features facilitated the construction of infrastructure that was vital for economic development.

Railways, roads, and irrigation systems were planned and executed with greater precision, fostering economic growth and integration. The expansion of the railway network, for instance, connected previously isolated regions, facilitating trade and commerce. This connectivity helped create a unified market across the subcontinent, stimulating economic activity and development. The survey’s work in mapping resources and land use patterns also contributed to the optimization of agricultural practices and resource extraction, further boosting economic growth. Beyond its immediate practical benefits, the Great Trigonometrical Survey left a lasting legacy in the fields of science and culture. The survey’s precision and methodology advanced the science of geodesy and set new standards for geographic measurement. The accurate geographic coordinates established by the survey influenced future scientific research and exploration. Culturally, the survey contributed to a deeper understanding of India’s diverse geography and historical landmarks. By documenting and mapping ancient sites and natural features, the survey helped preserve India’s cultural heritage.

The detailed maps provided insights into the region’s historical and cultural landscape, enriching the appreciation of India’s heritage. The significance of the Great Trigonometrical Survey is commemorated by several memorials across India. One notable example is Lambton’s Memorial in the village of Perumbauk, which marks the site where the initial baseline measurement began. These memorials serve as a testament to the monumental effort and achievements of the survey, honouring the contributions of Major Lambton and his team. The Great Trigonometrical Survey of India was a landmark project that reshaped the Indian subcontinent in multiple dimensions.

From its meticulous beginning with the measurement of a 7.5-mile baseline near Madras to its profound impacts on administration, economy, and culture, the survey was a transformative endeavour. Its legacy endures through the precise maps it produced, the infrastructure it helped develop, and the scientific advancements it inspired. The Great Trigonometrical Survey stands as a testament to the power of scientific innovation in shaping the course of history and transforming societies.

(The writer is Santosh Mathew, Associate Professor, Centre for South Asian Studies, Pondicherry Central University.)

source/content: thestatesman.com (headline edited)