How Does the Maritime Vision and Security Imperatives Shape the Mahasagar Conference?
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Synopsis
The Mahasagar conference, shaping India's maritime future, highlights the integration of security, economic growth, and ocean sustainability. Experts stress the importance of the blue economy as India solidifies its role in the Global South.
Key Takeaways
- Mahasagar enhances India’s maritime security strategy.
- Integration of blue economy and sustainability is essential.
- Collaboration with regional nations is a priority.
- Focus on net-zero emissions by 2070 is emphasized.
- Regular updates to the initiative are necessary for effectiveness.
New Delhi, May 23 (NationPress) The transformation of India's Sagar initiative into Mahasagar signifies a substantial opportunity for the nation’s blue economy and the sustainability of its oceans, while also ensuring security in maritime domains, experts emphasized during a conference on Friday.
During the event titled – The Mahasagar Initiative in the Current Security Context, Ambassador Rajiv Bhatia, a Distinguished Fellow at Gateway House's Foreign Studies Programme, remarked, “The Mahasagar initiative is rooted in PM Narendra Modi’s Sagar initiative initiated in 2015.”
Sagar represents Security and Growth for All in the Region, while Mahasagar signifies Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
Ambassador Bhatia explained that the aim of the Mahasagar initiative is “to expand the framework of bilateral cooperation with regional nations and extend this pattern to other areas, including the greater Indian Ocean and beyond.”
Highlighting the significance of the blue economy for India, he noted, “The government is drafting a Blue Economy Policy. This policy will leverage several vital sectors, including fishing, aquaculture, port development, and innovations in science, technology, and green tech to unlock the full potential of the blue economy.”
The conference, hosted by the Chintan Research Foundation, served as a forum to analyze maritime security threats and challenges, helping to identify India's economic and strategic partnerships in Mahasagar.
It also convened experts to discuss the strategic development of India’s maritime vision known as Mahasagar and to comprehend the current security challenges facing the Indian subcontinent.
By merging security necessities with economic growth and environmental sustainability, Mahasagar positions India as a crucial actor in shaping the future of the Global South, asserted an expert.
Shishir Priyadarshi, a specialist in international economic policy and the president of Chintan Research Foundation, stated, “The Indian Navy serves as a formidable deterrent, which is vital for maintaining peace.”
“It is crucial that we pursue economic growth while keeping our eyes on sustainability and climate change,” he added, emphasizing the importance of leaving a cleaner planet for future generations.
On the strategic front, Priyadarshi noted, “India must regularly update its Mahasagar initiative to address the concerns of neighboring nations.”
To combat pollution, he highlighted, “Eighty percent of maritime pollution originates from land. Therefore, adopting a circular blue economy that ensures sustainable livelihoods derived from our oceans is essential,” adding that this is a significant aspect of Mahasagar.
Looking ahead, Mahasagar will increasingly emphasize sustainability and the greening of all its initiatives, he stated.
Regarding potential advantages from Mahasagar, he remarked that these efforts align with India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. “Overall, focusing on the blue economy, ocean sustainability, and green economic initiatives is vital,” he concluded.
When Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Sagar initiative in 2015, its three core pillars were: S, G, and R, denoting security and growth throughout the entire Indian Ocean region.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize that India's Mahasagar initiative is a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses maritime security but also embodies sustainable growth. The collaboration with regional partners showcases India's commitment to establishing itself as a leader in the blue economy while navigating the complexities of maritime challenges.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mahasagar initiative?
The Mahasagar initiative is an evolution of India's Sagar initiative, aimed at enhancing maritime security, fostering bilateral cooperation, and promoting the blue economy across regions.
How does the Mahasagar initiative contribute to the blue economy?
It seeks to leverage various sectors such as fishing, aquaculture, and green technology to unlock the full potential of India's maritime resources.
What are the core objectives of the Mahasagar initiative?
The objectives include broadening bilateral cooperation, ensuring security in maritime areas, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Why is the blue economy important for India?
The blue economy is crucial for India as it holds the potential for significant economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
What role does the Indian Navy play in the Mahasagar initiative?
The Indian Navy acts as a strong deterrent to ensure peace and security in maritime regions, which is a vital aspect of the Mahasagar initiative.
