Context:
India reaffirmed its dedication to a sustainable Blue Economy at the Monaco Marine Conference on World Ocean Day.
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- India was represented by Minister of Earth and Science who highlighted India’s strides in adopting Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) as a key tool for sustainable ocean governance.
- Minister further asserted that India’s science-driven, data-informed approach underscores the country’s vision for ocean governance that benefits both people and the planet.
- India and Norway both co-hosted a high-level Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) event in Monaco, marking strengthened global cooperation for sustainable ocean governance.
- The event reinforced the strong bilateral maritime cooperation between India and Norway.
- India launched the SAHAV portal – a GIS-based decision support system which is now recognised as a Digital Public Good, to mark the World Ocean Day.
Key Features of the portal:
- Offers real-time spatial data
- Supports policy-making, research, and community-level planning
- Recognised as a Digital Public Good
Marine Spatial Planning (MSP)
Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) is a science-based framework essential for:
- Optimising ocean resources
- Protecting marine biodiversity
- Safeguarding coastal livelihoods
• It was envisaged under the Indo-Norwegian Integrated Ocean and Research Initiative.
• Under it pilot projects are being executed in Puducherry and Lakshadweep addressing diverse issues like coastal erosion, biodiversity, fisheries, tourism and conservation.
World Ocean Day
- It is an international observance held every year on June 8.
- The idea was first proposed in 1992 by Canada’s International Centre for Ocean Development and the Ocean Institute of Canada during the Earth Summit – UN Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.