Fossil of Birbalsahnia divyadarshanii
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | 50th Ann. of Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | September 11, 1997 |
| Denomination | Rs. 2 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Photogravure |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1568 Stamp Number IN 1622 Yvert et Tellier IN 1338 Stanley Gibbons IN 1732 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Fossils | Plants (Flora) |
Introduction
Birbalsahnia divyadarshanii is a rare and significant fossil representing an enigmatic flower-like organ of an extinct prehistoric plant. It is one of the remarkable discoveries in Indian palaeobotany and reflects the rich fossil heritage of the Indian subcontinent.
Discovery and Location
This fossil was discovered in the Hura Coalfield of Santhal Pargana, Bihar. The region is well known for preserving ancient plant remains that provide valuable evidence about vegetation that existed millions of years ago.
Geological Age
Birbalsahnia divyadarshanii dates back to the Permian period, approximately 250 to 280 million years ago. This was a time when India formed part of the southern supercontinent known as Gondwanaland.
Scientific Importance
The fossil is considered unusual because of its flower-like structure, making it an important specimen for studying extinct plant groups and the evolutionary history of plant reproduction. It contributes to scientific understanding of ancient ecosystems, climate conditions, and plant diversity.
Name and Tribute
The fossil was named in honour of two eminent Indian palaeobotanists—Professor Birbal Sahni and Professor Divya Darshan Pant—for their outstanding contributions to the study of fossil plants in India.
Commemorative Stamp
The Department of Posts featured Birbalsahnia divyadarshanii in a commemorative postage stamp issued on the Golden Jubilee of the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow, celebrating India’s achievements in fossil plant research.
First Day Cover
