India is integrating cutting-edge technologies, including satellite imagery and autonomous underwater vehicles, to bolster marine conservation efforts, the government said on Monday.
In a written response to a parliamentary question, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh outlined initiatives to monitor ocean conditions and safeguard marine biodiversity.
The measures include using satellite data and remote sensing technologies to track sea surface temperatures, salinity and water quality, helping to detect illegal fishing and monitor coral reef health.
“The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services has deployed an early warning system to assess thermal stress on coral reefs, aiding in the protection of marine ecosystems,” Singh said.
Artificial Reefs and Coral Restoration
As part of its broader conservation strategy, India is also installing artificial reefs to enhance marine biodiversity and promote sustainable fishing.
The Department of Fisheries has sanctioned 937 artificial reef units across 11 coastal states and Union Territories under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, with an investment of ₹176.81 crore ($21.3 million).
The Zoological Survey of India has played a key role in coral restoration efforts, leading the country’s largest coral translocation project.
“Over 16,500 corals have been relocated in Gujarat’s Narara region, and 2,000 artificial reef structures have been placed to support long-term marine conservation,” said Singh.
Tackling Marine Plastic Pollution
India is also addressing marine plastic pollution through its leadership role in the International Maritime Organization’s GloLitter Partnership programme.
The initiative aims to combat plastic litter from the shipping and fisheries sectors, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization.
The government has constituted a national task force and developed an action plan to reduce plastic waste from sea-based sources.
Sustainable Fisheries and Climate Resilience
The Fishery Survey of India is assessing the impact of ocean temperature fluctuations on fish stocks and marine biodiversity. It provides fishers with guidance on sustainable fishing practices while conducting awareness campaigns on climate-resilient fishing methods.
Leading institutions, including the CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, the National Institute of Ocean Technology, and the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, are developing climate-resilient technologies to support marine conservation strategies.
