Solan: The Paleontological Society of India (PSI) celebrated its Platinum Jubilee with a special field program. This event was jointly held by the Tethys Fossil Museum, Kasauli, and IISER Mohali. The journey began in Chandigarh and concluded at the museum near Subathu, Himachal Pradesh. Six students took part—three each from Panjab University and IISER Mohali. They were guided by Dr. Harsha Dhiman, faculty at IISER Mohali. During the field visit, they made a major discovery. For the first time, silicified fossil wood was found in the Lower Siwalik sandstone near Tipra village, close to the Himachal–Haryana border.
This exciting find came during a stop at a roadside quarry. It shows the area’s rich geological and paleobotanical value. The fossil now joins the growing collection at the Tethys Fossil Museum. Though silicification destroyed its inner structure, experts from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences will assist in identifying it. To honor everyone’s effort, a special ceremony was held at the museum. Miss Riddhi Pal, CEO of the Subathu Cantonment Board, handed out participation certificates.
Dr. Rajiv Nigam, PSI President, shared a message congratulating the team. He thanked Dr. Ritesh Arya, founder of the Tethys Fossil Museum, and Dr. Harsha Dhiman for their efforts. He also appreciated the support from both Panjab University and IISER Mohali. Dr. Nigam invited all contributors to join the final Platinum Jubilee celebration at NIO, Goa, in October. This successful program boosted geoheritage awareness and strengthened research bonds in Indian paleontology.
