Odisha Initiates Marine Spatial Plan for Economic and Environmental Advancement
Synopsis
Odisha has embarked on an innovative journey by signing an MoU for a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) to boost coastal economic growth while prioritizing marine conservation, setting a path for sustainable development.
Key Takeaways
Odisha has signed an MoU to implement a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP).
The MSP aims to promote sustainable coastal economic growth.
Chief Minister Majhi emphasized the importance of protecting marine biodiversity.
Odisha is the first state to implement the second phase of Sustainable Ocean Planning.
The initiative is supported by the government of Norway.
Bhubaneswar, April 16 (NationPress) - The Odisha Science and Technology department has officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Centre for Coastal Research, a division of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, to implement a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) aimed at fostering coastal development and conservation in the state.
The signing of the MoU took place at the Lok Seva Bhawan, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in attendance.
According to an official announcement from the state government, the main goal of the MSP is to stimulate coastal economic growth in Odisha while ensuring the preservation of marine environments.
During the event, Chief Minister Majhi remarked, "The MSP will not only enhance the blue economy but will also protect our marine ecology. This initiative will uplift local coastal economies and preserve marine biodiversity."
He emphasized that the MSP represents a significant advancement in integrated coastal and marine planning.
It's important to note that Sustainable Ocean Planning has been progressing in India since 2019, facilitated by a partnership between the governments of India and Norway.
Initially, this was introduced in Puducherry and Lakshadweep, and now Odisha stands as the first state to adopt it in the second phase.
In his address, Chief Minister Majhi highlighted that Odisha's coastal and marine areas are abundant in biodiversity and natural resources, which are crucial for livelihoods, economic development, and ecological balance. He pointed out that increasing developmental activities, along with environmental impacts and sectoral demands, necessitate a systematic approach to managing marine ecosystems. He described the MSP as a timely solution.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister noted that the MSP will cater to the requirements of sectors such as fisheries, tourism, ports, and ocean energy, all while safeguarding marine ecosystems.
He also mentioned the launch of the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research and Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC) last August, which aims to leverage biotechnology for marine environmental protection and economic advancement, thereby further enhancing the MSP initiative.
Majhi stressed that achieving the vision of a thriving Odisha by 2036 and a developed India by 2047 demands significant coastal economic growth alongside environmental sustainability.
He expressed gratitude towards the government of Norway for its backing in this initiative and acknowledged the ongoing support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which has played a pivotal role in Odisha becoming the first state in the second phase of Sustainable Ocean Planning.
Point of View
The state sets a precedent for responsible coastal management, which may serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Marine Spatial Plan (MSP)?
The Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) is a framework aimed at promoting sustainable coastal economic growth while ensuring the protection of marine environments.
Who signed the MoU for the MSP?
The MoU was signed by the Odisha Science and Technology department in collaboration with the National Centre for Coastal Research under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
What are the goals of the MSP?
The goals of the MSP include boosting the blue economy, protecting marine ecology, and promoting local coastal economies.
When was the MSP initiative launched in India?
The Sustainable Ocean Planning initiative began in India in 2019, with Odisha being the first state to implement it in the second phase.
How will the MSP benefit Odisha?
The MSP will help meet the needs of various sectors such as fisheries, tourism, and ocean energy while ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems.
