Current Affairs - National - Discussion

A total of 7 new Indian names were approved by the International Astronomical Union for Martian surface features, reflecting India’s growing contributions to planetary science. These names include locations from Kerala such as Valiamala, Thumba, Bekal, Varkala, and Periyar, along with two features honouring geologist M. S. Krishnan. The approvals highlight India’s scientific heritage, the significance of its geological and space research sites, and the role of Indian institutions in deepening Martian geological understanding. The global naming process, overseen by the IAU, ensures that culturally meaningful and scientifically relevant names gain international recognition.