Paper: GS – III, Subject: Environment and Ecology, Topic: Indian Initiatives, efforts and Commitments, Issue: Odisha–NCCR Partnership for Marine Spatial Plan.
Context:
The Odisha government has signed an agreement with the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) to implement a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) for integrated coastal and marine management. This initiative aligns with India’s broader efforts toward sustainable ocean governance and climate resilience.
Key Takeaways:
Key Features and Rationale of Odisha’s MSP Initiative:
- The Marine Spatial Plan covers Odisha’s 550 km coastline, including ecologically significant features such as lagoons (Chilika), mangroves, and estuaries, ensuring comprehensive coastal management.
- The initiative is being implemented with technical support from the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, and builds upon earlier MSP experiences in Puducherry and Lakshadweep.
- Odisha’s coastline is ecologically rich and biodiversity-intensive, but faces increasing pressures from developmental activities, industrialisation, and competing sectoral demands, thereby necessitating a scientific and integrated management approach.
- The region is characterised by a diverse coastal ecosystem, and NCCR is undertaking benthic mapping to analyse key parameters such as salinity, temperature, and habitat conditions.
- The generated scientific data enables evidence-based identification of suitable zones for activities such as fisheries, tourism, and seagrass or seaweed cultivation, ensuring both economic utilisation and ecological sustainability.
Other Related Initiatives:
- Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research and Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC)
- Promotes biotechnology for – Marine conservation & Sustainable resource use
- Supports Startups, coastal livelihoods & scientific research
Conclusion:
Marine Spatial Planning represents a holistic and science-based approach to managing coastal and marine resources. Odisha’s initiative is a significant step toward balancing ecological sustainability, economic development, and climate resilience, while strengthening India’s commitment to sustainable ocean governance.
Source: (The Indian Express)
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