| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-12-0476 |
| Title of Abstract | Blue Economy perspectives for India: Mapping possibilities for sustainable development |
| Authors | FALGUNI TAILOR* |
| Organisation | DR KIRAN PATEL CENTRE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT,IIT GANDHINAGAR |
| Address | HB 18/301, IIT GANDHINAGAR, GUJARAT 382355 Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India Pincode: 382055 E-mail: falgunitailor10@gmail.com |
| Country | India |
| Presentation | Oral |
| Abstract | India, with its vast coastline and extensive marine space, holds significant potential for unlocking the benefits of the Blue Economy. The World Bank defines the Blue Economy as the "sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem". As a nation, we have embarked on a journey to tap into coastal and marine resources to drive economic growth. This commitment is evident in various governmental initiatives, such as the establishment of a committee by Niti Aayog to draft a National Maritime Policy, the draft Blue Economy Policy formulated by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the integration of the blue economy into Vision 2030 as one of its ten dimensions, and the Sagarmala Programme. The concept of the blue economy is relatively new in India, but it holds great significance for driving our economic growth. Integrating decision-making related to resource allocation and use, spatial and temporal mapping mechanisms, research initiatives, and environmental monitoring is crucial to implement blue economy strategies successfully. Considering the diverse range of natural and human-induced activities in the marine environment, efficient information flow and inter-agency coordination are paramount. Key tools such as marine spatial planning and integrated coastal management can be leveraged to comprehend the complexities of coastal and marine areas and propel the nation into a higher growth trajectory. This paper attempts to assess India's existing and emerging maritime sectors and their alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It aims to provide a comprehensive list of these sectors while highlighting their significant contributions and impact on the three pillars of sustainable development: economic, social, and environmental. The course of action for attaining blue economy targets should be so planned that the economic benefits are balanced with sustainability. As a nation, India can take immediate actions to jointly move ahead towards the path of blue economy, 2021-30 being proclaimed the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development by the United Nations. This study is expected to interest researchers and practitioners working across the coastal and marine domains. |
| Keywords | blue economy, maritime sectors, oceans, sustainable development goals, economic growth |
| For Awards | yes |