Rupali Pal

What’s the work that you do?

I work in the field of background environmental radiation through natural occurring radionuclides present in the soil, rocks, air and water. Environmental radioactivity in the Antarctic Region, especially in the Larsemann Region of East Antarctica, where the Indian station “Bharati” is situated, is unique. As per geotectonic theory, India was once a part of Antarctica which got disconnected and moved ahead to merge with Asia. The theory has been supported by dating studies by geologists. The Larsemann region with its radiation signatures, i.e., background thorium concentrations higher than uranium, is similar to the radioactivity concentrations available in Indian coastlines and can support the India- Antarctic link theory.

What keeps you going?

Finding answers to the unknown and scientific pursuits motivates me. Researching in the land of penguins has been an enriching and scientifically interesting experience. The support that my family, friends, and seniors give me is encouraging. The icy whiteness and pristine beauty of the region is a bliss.

What’s your message to the world?

Earth is subject to climatic changes because of human interference. Pollution causes global warming and ice sheet melting. It is the polar regions which have sustained the Earth’s energy balance in a holistic way for millions of years. Preserving the polar regions is the key to the future life on Earth. It is up to all of us to save our Earth.