Article 2: Marine Spatial Planning & Climate Resilience in India
Why in News: Odisha has become the first Indian state to implement Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) to strengthen coastal management and climate resilience.
Key Details
- Odisha signed an MoU with the National Centre for Coastal Research under the Ministry of Earth Sciences to implement MSP.
- MSP is part of the India–Norway collaboration (since 2019) on sustainable ocean management.
- Odisha has a 550+ km coastline, rich in biodiversity like mangroves, estuaries, and Chilika Lake.
- The initiative focuses on blue economy, climate resilience, and sustainable marine resource use.
Marine Spatial Planning (MSP): Concept & Global Framework
- Definition & Institutional Basis: MSP is defined by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission as a process to allocate marine space for ecological, economic, and social objectives. It ensures balanced use of ocean resources through scientific and participatory governance.
- Integrated Ocean Governance Tool: MSP integrates sectors like fisheries, tourism, shipping, and energy, reducing conflicts among stakeholders. It aligns with ecosystem-based management, ensuring sustainability of marine biodiversity.
- Global Best Practices: Countries like Norway and Australia have successfully implemented MSP to manage offshore energy and fisheries. These models demonstrate improved marine conservation and economic optimisation.
- Link with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): MSP directly contributes to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and supports climate action under SDG 13. It also promotes sustainable livelihoods and economic growth.
MSP in India: Policy Evolution & Blue Economy
- India–Norway Initiative (2019): India launched MSP under a bilateral initiative with Norway to strengthen scientific ocean planning. Phase-I covered Puducherry and Lakshadweep, focusing on pilot implementation.
- Alignment with Blue Economy Policy: MSP supports India’s vision of Blue Economy, focusing on sustainable ocean resources for economic growth. It complements initiatives like Sagarmala Programme and Deep Ocean Mission.
- Institutional Support: Agencies like NCCR provide data-driven inputs, including oceanography, biodiversity mapping, and climate modelling. This enhances evidence-based policymaking.
- Need for MSP in India: India has a 7,500 km coastline, supporting millions of livelihoods. Rising pressures from industrialisation, ports, and climate change necessitate integrated planning.
Odisha’s Coastal Ecosystem: Strategic Importance
- Ecological Richness: Odisha’s coastline hosts ecosystems like mangroves (Bhitarkanika), lagoons (Chilika Lake), and estuaries. These act as natural buffers against cyclones and coastal erosion.
- Economic Significance: Coastal regions support fisheries, tourism, ports, and emerging sectors like marine biotechnology. Chilika Lake alone contributes significantly to fish production and livelihoods.
- Vulnerability to Climate Change: Odisha is highly prone to cyclones, storm surges, and sea-level rise. Events like Cyclone Fani highlight the need for resilient coastal planning.
- Population Dependence: A large coastal population depends on marine resources, making sustainable management critical. MSP ensures equitable resource allocation.
MSP Implementation in Odisha: Key Features
- Scientific Mapping (Benthic Mapping): NCCR will conduct underwater vegetation and seabed mapping, crucial for biodiversity conservation. This helps identify zones for fishing, tourism, and conservation.
- Ocean Parameter Assessment: Parameters like salinity, temperature, and water quality will be studied. These are essential for climate modelling and marine ecosystem health.
- Zonation of Marine Activities: MSP will demarcate zones for ports, fisheries, tourism, and renewable energy. This reduces conflicts and ensures optimal resource utilisation.
- Policy Formulation Support: Data-driven insights will guide state policies for sustainable development. It will integrate economic growth with environmental protection.
MSP and Climate Resilience
- Disaster Risk Reduction: MSP helps identify vulnerable zones and plan infrastructure accordingly. It strengthens resilience against cyclones, floods, and coastal erosion.
- Ecosystem-Based Adaptation: Conservation of mangroves and seagrasses enhances carbon sequestration and coastal protection. These ecosystems act as natural climate buffers.
- Sustainable Resource Use: MSP prevents overexploitation of fisheries and marine resources. It ensures long-term ecological balance and food security.
- Support to Blue Economy: By balancing ecology and economy, MSP promotes sustainable economic growth. It aligns with India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.
Challenges in MSP Implementation
- Data Gaps & Technical Capacity: Limited marine data and technological expertise hinder effective planning. Continuous monitoring and research are required.
- Inter-agency Coordination: Multiple stakeholders (state, centre, local bodies) create governance complexity. Lack of coordination may delay implementation.
- Livelihood Concerns: Restricting certain zones may impact traditional fishing communities.
Inclusive planning is necessary to avoid conflicts.
- Regulatory and Legal Issues: India lacks a comprehensive legal framework specifically for MSP.
Integration with existing laws like CRZ norms is needed.
Way Forward
- Strengthen Institutional Framework: Develop a national MSP policy with clear legal backing and coordination mechanisms.
- Community Participation: Involve local communities and fishermen in planning for inclusive governance.
- Technology & Data Integration: Use GIS, satellite mapping, and AI for real-time marine monitoring.
- Integration with Climate Policies: Align MSP with National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and coastal regulation policies.
Conclusion
Marine Spatial Planning represents a transformative approach to ocean governance in India. Odisha’s initiative marks a significant step towards integrating economic development, ecological sustainability, and climate resilience. For India, MSP can become a cornerstone of its Blue Economy strategy, ensuring sustainable utilisation of marine resources while safeguarding future generations.
EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR UPSC CSE
Descriptive Question
Q. Discuss the role of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in promoting sustainable development and climate resilience in India. (150 Words, 10 Marks)