Several strategic initiatives have been launched in alignment with India’s Draft National Blue Economy Policy, SDG-14 (Life Below Water) and the UN Decade of Ocean Science. The Deep Ocean Mission of the Ministry of Earth Sciences aims to advance marine research, developing deep-sea technologies and sustainable marine resource exploration. Likewise, the Sagarmala program of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) focuses on port-led development to enhance coastal infrastructure and logistics. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) by Department of Fisheries (DoF) is specifically designed to promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Additionally, environmental protection efforts including coastal clean-up campaigns and amended Plastic Waste Management Rules by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) directly address marine pollution, reflecting a commitment to SDG-14 and the objectives of the UN Decade of Ocean Science.

India has strengthened ocean governance by signing the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement and is actively enhancing its legal and regulatory frameworks for maritime activities. The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), along with other ministries involved in the Blue Economy domain, has undertaken several initiatives to promote private sector participation through targeted workshops, investment policies, and mechanisms such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). Further, the government has worked towards regional cooperation through initiatives like SAGAR, multilateral maritime exercises and active engagement in platforms such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). The formulation of the Draft National Blue Economy Policy included consultations, incorporating inputs from state governments, local communities, scientific institutions, industry representatives and non-governmental organizations. Additionally, targeted programmes like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) directly engage fishing communities, while initiatives in coastal tourism and environmental conservation involve local populations in implementation and planning.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, MoS Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

*****

NKR/PSM/AV

(Release ID: 2153586)