Understanding India's Blue Economy Strategy

What is India’s Blue Economy Strategy?

India’s Blue Economy strategy emphasizes the sustainable utilization of ocean resources to drive economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability. Key components of this strategy include:

• Deep-sea mining for polymetallic nodules (PMN).
• Coastal tourism and marine fisheries.
• Skill development and advancements in shipping.
• Research and development in ocean technology.

Role of the International Seabed Authority (ISA)

The International Seabed Authority (ISA), based in Jamaica, plays a critical role in regulating deep-sea mining and resource exploration beyond national jurisdictions. India has been recognized as a “Pioneer Investor,” which grants it exclusive rights to explore deep-sea minerals.

India's Status in Seabed Exploration

India has made notable progress in seabed exploration, which includes:

• Renewing its Polymetallic Nodules (PMN) exploration contract with the ISA, originally signed in 2002.
• Applying for exploration rights in new regions, such as the Afanasy Nikitin Seamount (AN Seamount), known for its cobalt-rich resources.
• Launching Samudrayaan, a manned deep-sea mission aimed at advancing oceanic research.

Strengthening India's Position through Deep-Sea Missions

India’s Deep-Sea Mission focuses on several strategic objectives:

• Developing indigenous technologies for deep-sea mining.
• Enhancing seabed mapping and research on marine biodiversity.
• Improving maritime security and economic opportunities.

Concerns Regarding China's Activities in the Indian Ocean

China's activities, including hydrographic surveys and seabed mapping near India’s maritime zones, have raised security concerns. In response, India is:

• Strengthening its efforts in deep-sea resource exploration.
• Expanding cooperation with the ISA and regional partners.
• Enhancing monitoring capabilities in strategic oceanic areas.

Future Steps in Oceanic Development

Looking ahead, India plans to:

• Implement a comprehensive framework for Blue Economy policies.
• Expand deep-sea resource extraction with the support of the ISA.
• Develop marine research infrastructure and undersea technologies.

In conclusion, "The future of global power lies beneath the oceans—nations that harness their maritime resources will lead the next wave of economic growth."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of India's Blue Economy strategy?
Answer: India's Blue Economy strategy is significant as it aims to promote sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and improved livelihoods.

Q2. How does the International Seabed Authority support India's ocean initiatives?
Answer: The ISA regulates deep-sea mining and grants India exclusive exploration rights as a "Pioneer Investor," facilitating India's access to valuable ocean resources.

Q3. What initiatives are included in India's Deep-Sea Mission?
Answer: India's Deep-Sea Mission includes developing indigenous technologies for mining, enhancing seabed mapping, and advancing marine biodiversity research.

Q4. Why is India concerned about China's maritime activities?
Answer: India is concerned about China's activities due to potential threats to its maritime security and the need to safeguard its interests in the Indian Ocean region.

Q5. What future actions is India taking in ocean development?
Answer: India plans to implement a comprehensive Blue Economy policy, enhance deep-sea resource extraction, and develop marine research infrastructure for sustainable growth.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is a major focus of India’s Blue Economy strategy?
A) Enhancing land agriculture
B) Sustainable use of ocean resources
C) Urban development
D) Space exploration
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which organization regulates deep-sea mining activities?
A) World Bank
B) International Seabed Authority
C) United Nations Environment Programme
D) International Maritime Organization
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What project aims to advance India's deep-sea capabilities?
A) Samudrayaan
B) Gaganyaan
C) Project Mangalyaan
D) Project Shakti
Correct Answer: A

Question 4: What is a concern for India regarding China's activities?
A) Economic treaties
B) Hydrographic surveys near maritime zones
C) Agricultural imports
D) Cultural exchanges
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is a future goal of India's Blue Economy?
A) Reducing coastal tourism
B) Expanding land agriculture
C) Developing marine research infrastructure
D) Limiting ocean resource use
Correct Answer: C