What Actions is India Taking for Global Ocean Health?
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Synopsis
India is taking bold steps to protect ocean health at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France. With over $80 billion in projects and a commitment to sustainable practices, the nation is poised to lead global efforts in marine conservation. Discover how these initiatives aim to reverse ocean degradation and enhance biodiversity.
Key Takeaways
- India called for urgent global action on ocean health at UNOC3.
- Over $80 billion in projects support the Blue Economy.
- Focus on marine plastic cleanup and sustainable fisheries.
- Significant progress on the Deep Ocean Mission and expanding Marine Protected Areas.
- Commitment to climate resilience and biodiversity goals.
New Delhi, June 10 (NationPress) India has urgently called for global action regarding ocean health during the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) held in Nice, France.
At this significant conference, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh advocated for a global ocean pact and highlighted India's considerable advancements in deep-sea exploration, marine plastic cleanup, and sustainable fisheries.
Dr. Singh emphasized India's progress on the upcoming manned submersible as part of the Deep Ocean Mission, the nationwide ban on single-use plastics, and the announcement of over $80 billion in investments towards the Blue Economy.
India also supported the rapid ratification of the BBNJ Agreement, called for a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty, and launched the ‘SAHAV’ digital ocean data portal, marking its growing influence in global marine governance.
While addressing the assembled delegates, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, Dr. Singh reiterated India’s dedication to Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
He outlined how India’s initiatives focus on reversing ocean degradation through science, innovation, and inclusive partnerships.
A significant highlight was the advancement of the Deep Ocean Mission’s ‘Samudrayaan’ project, which aims to deploy India’s first manned submersible by 2026, targeting ocean depths of up to 6,000 meters and representing a major advancement in India’s scientific capabilities.
Dr. Singh also mentioned the expansion of India’s Marine Protected Areas, which currently cover 6.6 percent of the Exclusive Economic Zone, thereby contributing to global biodiversity objectives.
Regarding marine pollution, the Minister noted the positive results from the ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar’ campaign, which has successfully cleaned over 1,000 km of coastline and removed more than 50,000 tonnes of plastic waste since 2022.
A draft marine litter policy has been formulated, and India continues to advocate for negotiations on a Global Plastics Treaty aimed at establishing a legally binding international framework.
India’s efforts related to the Blue Economy, spearheaded by the Sagarmala Programme and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), were also prominently featured.
Emphasizing climate resilience, Dr. Singh highlighted the restoration of over 10,000 hectares of mangroves and the implementation of shoreline management strategies utilizing nature-based solutions. Furthermore, India has integrated ocean-centric climate actions into its Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement.
Point of View
India's commitment to ocean health at the UNOC3 is both timely and necessary. The initiatives presented by Dr. Singh reflect a comprehensive strategy towards sustainability, showcasing India's readiness to lead in global marine governance. As we face escalating challenges from climate change and pollution, India's proactive stance serves as a beacon of hope for ocean conservation efforts.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the UN Ocean Conference?
The UN Ocean Conference provides a platform for countries to collaborate on solutions for ocean health and sustainability, addressing critical issues such as pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
What are the main initiatives India is pursuing?
India is focusing on deep-sea exploration, marine plastic cleanup, and sustainable fisheries, with significant investments totaling over $80 billion in the Blue Economy.
How is India addressing marine pollution?
Through campaigns like 'Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar', India has cleaned over 1,000 km of its coastline and removed more than 50,000 tonnes of plastic waste since 2022.
What are Marine Protected Areas?
Marine Protected Areas are regions designated to protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity, with India currently covering 6.6% of its Exclusive Economic Zone.
What role does the Deep Ocean Mission play?
The Deep Ocean Mission aims to enhance India's scientific capabilities in deep-sea exploration, including the deployment of a manned submersible by 2026.
