Re-Evaluating the Different Cratonic Segments of the Dharwar Craton (South Indian Shield): New Constraints

ABSTRACT The Dharwar Craton (DC) in southern India has traditionally been divided into the Western Dharwar Craton (WDC) and Eastern Dharwar Craton (EDC). Recently, DC has been divided into three after the addition of Central Dharwar Craton (CDC) based on variations in lithology, metamorphic history, geophysical signatures and geochronology. This observation critically examines the criteria used to differentiate WDC, CDC and EDC, including lithological compositions and associations, structural trends, metamorphic grades, geochronological data, and geophysical characteristics. The evidences suggest that these distinctions are not sufficient to classify three separate cratonic entities. This opinion argues for a unified perspective of the DC, emphasising the need for an integrated fundamental approach to understand its geological history. The given logic justifies that WDC, CDC and EDC are not separate cratons but instead form a single, continuous cratonic entity. The WDC, CDC and EDC share a common crustal formation history (similar lithology, overlapping geochronology). No major suture zone or tectonic break exists between them. Seismic and gravity studies confirm the absence of discontinuous cratonic lithosphere. Isotopic evidence also never suggested an undoubtedly different source and evolution. The DC should be treated as a single, unified cratonic block with internal heterogeneities rather than as three distinct cratons.