India is diving headfirst into a new era of marine conservation, and it’s not just about lip service—it’s about rolling up sleeves and getting to work. The country is pulling out all the stops, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and robust policy frameworks to safeguard its marine ecosystems. With a coastline that stretches over 7,500 kilometers and a vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 2.02 million square kilometers, India is one of the most biodiverse nations on the planet. It’s a treasure trove of marine life, and the government is committed to keeping it that way.
The Indian government is not just talking the talk; it’s walking the walk. By integrating innovative solutions like satellite imagery, remote sensing technologies, and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), the government is improving the implementation and monitoring of marine life conservation strategies. These technologies are the eyes and ears of marine conservation, tracking various parameters such as sea surface temperature, salinity, water quality, and the health of coral reefs. Tools like the C-bot, an autonomous underwater vehicle, are helping researchers gather real-time data from the ocean depths, providing crucial insights into the condition of marine life. Satellite imagery and remote sensing are being used to continuously monitor environmental changes, ensuring early detection of threats to coral reefs, such as coral bleaching and illegal fishing activities. Such technologies are not only essential for monitoring but also for formulating effective policies. The data derived from these tools allows the government to make informed decisions regarding marine conservation, identify potential threats to ecosystems, and implement necessary interventions in a timely manner. The early warning systems built through these technologies also help improve climate resilience, ensuring that marine ecosystems can better withstand the challenges posed by climate change.
One of the significant efforts to restore and enhance marine ecosystems in India is the installation of artificial reefs. These man-made structures are designed to rehabilitate and enhance natural marine habitats, providing refuge for a variety of marine species. Artificial reefs improve habitat quality and productivity, contributing to the long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems and promoting sustainable fishing practices. The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) plays a crucial role in coral restoration efforts, including coral transplantation and rehabilitation initiatives. India’s largest coral translocation project, which involved the relocation of over 16,000 corals from intertidal and subtidal zones to more suitable locations around Narara, Gujarat, serves as a testament to the country’s commitment to marine conservation. Alongside this, more than 2,000 coral cement frames, designed as artificial reefs, have been strategically placed to foster the growth of marine biodiversity. In addition, the Indian government, through the Department of Fisheries, has sanctioned the installation of 937 artificial reef units across 11 coastal states and Union Territories. This initiative, with an investment of ₹176.81 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), is aimed at restoring aquatic life and enhancing biodiversity in marine ecosystems.
India is also a key participant in the GloLitter Partnership Programme, led by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), which tackles marine plastic litter. Through this programme, India collaborates with international agencies like the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to address the issue of plastic pollution from both the shipping and fisheries sectors. To support this effort, India has constituted a National Task Force and developed the National Action Plan for Marine Plastic Litter, which outlines the country’s commitment to reducing plastic waste and mitigating its impact on marine environments.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) plays a vital role in protecting coral ecosystems through its early warning systems. The Coral Bleaching Alert System (CBAS) uses satellite data to monitor and assess thermal stress in coral environments based on sea surface temperature fluctuations. CBAS provides regular updates on coral bleaching risks, identifying hotspots and predicting coral health trends. This timely data dissemination, which includes information on bleaching intensity and duration, helps marine conservationists respond quickly to mitigate the impacts of coral bleaching.
India’s commitment to marine life conservation is also strengthened by scientific research. The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) conducts extensive studies on the impact of environmental changes, such as rising sea temperatures, on coral species in Indian waters. Using advanced climate modeling techniques, ZSI generates valuable insights to inform conservation strategies and recommend timely interventions. Similarly, the Fishery Survey of India (FSI) plays a crucial role in monitoring marine biodiversity. FSI gathers data on the distribution of fish stocks, species composition, and the effects of ocean temperature fluctuations on marine life. These insights are crucial for developing sustainable fishing practices and helping fishing communities adapt to changing ocean conditions. The FSI also runs educational initiatives, aiming to raise awareness among coastal communities about climate-resilient fishing techniques and alternative livelihoods that promote environmental sustainability.
