Under the MoU between the Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board and the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP), Lucknow, a BSIP team carried out a two-day field study at the Salkhan Fossil Park in Sonbhadra for the scientific documentation of some of the earliest evidence of life on Earth—prehistoric stromatolites. With the support of the DFO Kaimur and under the guidance of Dr. Shilpa Pandey, Convener, Centre for Promotion of Geoheritage and Geotourism at BSIP, the team conducted detailed scientific recording of the stromatolites—layered structures formed by cyanobacteria—preserved on the rocky surfaces.

Located amid the natural landscapes of Sonbhadra district, Salkhan Fossil Park is one of India’s most significant geological and natural heritage sites. The Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board has, in recent years, undertaken several initiatives for the conservation and development of this nearly 1.4-billion-year-old park—such as interpretive signage, fencing, nature trails, rest areas, and drinking water facilities—to promote tourism while ensuring the protection of this fragile fossil heritage.

Notably, the UP Eco-Tourism Development Board is striving to get Salkhan Fossil Park inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In June 2025, Salkhan Fossil Park was included in UNESCO’s Tentative List (under the Natural Heritage category).