Understanding Marine Protected Areas in India

Classification of Marine Protected Areas in India

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in India are primarily classified under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and related frameworks. The core legally recognized MPAs include:

• Marine National Parks (MNPs)
  - They offer the highest level of protection under Indian wildlife law.
  - Human activity is strictly regulated, limited to research and tourism.
  - Example: Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park, Gujarat.
• Marine Wildlife Sanctuaries
  - Allow controlled activities such as traditional fishing in designated zones.
  - Example: Malvan Marine Sanctuary, Maharashtra.
• Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves
  - Introduced through the 2002 Amendment to the Wildlife Protection Act.
  - These reserves encourage community involvement and sustainable use.
  - They are rarely declared for marine areas but applicable along coasts.

Supplementary conservation categories, though not legally MPAs, are also relevant:

• Ramsar Sites with Marine Influence
  - Recognized under the Ramsar Convention as wetlands of international importance.
  - Examples: Chilika Lake (Odisha), Point Calimere (Tamil Nadu).
• Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs)
  - Protected under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, for marine and coastal ecosystems like coral reefs and mangroves.
  - Examples: Coral reefs of Lakshadweep, mangroves of Sundarbans.
• Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZs)
  - Although not MPAs, these zones protect coastal stretches.
  - They are divided into CRZ I to IV based on ecological sensitivity and land use norms.

Importance and Challenges of MPAs

MPAs play a critical role in protecting biodiversity, supporting fish stocks, and conserving essential habitats like coral reefs and estuaries. They also help mitigate climate change and sustain the livelihoods of coastal communities.

However, several challenges hinder effective management:

• Understaffing and poor enforcement of regulations.
• Unclear boundaries leading to conflicts.
• Lack of community involvement in conservation efforts.
• Resistance from traditional fishing communities.
• Inadequate biodiversity data and public awareness.

Future Directions for MPAs in India

India, as a signatory to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, aims to contribute to the 30x30 global target. Efforts include identifying Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas (EBSAs) and expanding MPA networks. However, progress remains limited, particularly in Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) coverage.

To strengthen MPA effectiveness in India, reforms are necessary:

• Institutionalizing community co-management systems.
• Increasing scientific and financial investment in marine conservation.
• Applying marine spatial planning tools and GIS.
• Integrating conservation into blue economy plans.
• Clarifying legal jurisdictions and enhancing enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)?
Answer: MPAs are designated marine zones where human activities are restricted or regulated to protect biodiversity, ecosystems, and cultural heritage.

Q2. How are MPAs classified in India?
Answer: Legally, they include Marine National Parks, Marine Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Conservation/Community Reserves under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Other tools like Ramsar Sites, ESAs, and CRZs supplement marine conservation.

Q3. How many MPAs does India have?
Answer: India has 31 officially notified MPAs, covering areas along the mainland coast and island territories.

Q4. Which are the most well-known MPAs in India?
Answer: Notable MPAs include the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Malvan Marine Sanctuary, and Chilika Lake (Ramsar site with marine influence).

Q5. Why are MPAs important for India?
Answer: MPAs protect critical habitats, support fish stocks, act as carbon sinks, help mitigate climate change, and sustain the livelihoods of coastal communities.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the main purpose of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)?
A) To promote fishing
B) To protect marine biodiversity
C) To increase tourism
D) To develop coastal areas
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which Act governs MPAs in India?
A) Environment Protection Act
B) Wildlife Protection Act
C) Coastal Regulation Zone Act
D) Fisheries Act
Correct Answer: B