The department of mines, minerals and geology under the Sikkim government has discovered a stromatolite fossil at the Fossil Park in Mamley in Namchi district of the mountain state.

Stromatolites – Greek for layered rock – are microbial reefs created by cyanobacteria (formerly known as blue-green algae). Ancient stromatolites were instrumental in shaping the foundation of life by contributing to the formation of vital elements like oxygen, carbon and nitrogen.

Chief minister Prem Singh Tamang has called the discovery “groundbreaking” and stated that his government will soon transform the site into a world-class “cutting edge” fossil theme park.

“I am delighted to know about the groundbreaking discovery of a 1.5-billion-year-old stromatolite fossil at Fossil Park in Mamley. This incredible find, which predates similar fossils from the Ottawa river in Canada, the Shark Bay in Australia and Montana in the USA, stands as a testament to one of Earth's earliest life forms,” said Tamang.

Tamang claimed that the discovery would help project the state as a new hub of geology and palaeontology. It will also draw the attention of researchers, he said.

The department of mine and geology of government of Sikkim discovered a stromatolite fossil at Fossil Park in Mamley, Namchi district, Sikkim. Picture courtesy: Sikkim Government

“We plan to develop a geopark village that will serve as a hub for researchers, scientists and tourists alike, thus, making Sikkim a destination of international significance in geology and paleontology,” said Tamang.

The Fossil Park is around 78km from the state capital Gangtok. The Geological Survey of India has declared the park a national geological monument for its protection, enhancement, maintenance and promotion.

The state government has also taken initiatives to protect it as a geoheritage site spread over 16 acres.

According to Tamang, they have planned to introduce a light and sound show that will narrate the history of the planet, a geological museum that will house rare specimens and showcase index fossils from across the globe. “We hope it will be yet another attraction for people visiting our state,” said Tamang.