In a clarion call for oceanic innovation, Science Minister Jitendra Singh revealed how marine science and biotechnology will anchor India’s tryst with rapid growth, widespread employment, and ecological balance.
The blueprint leverages India’s 12% share of global marine territory for diversified revenue streams: from pearl farming in the Gulf of Mannar to methane hydrate extraction off the eastern seaboard. Singh projected a 15% annual growth trajectory for the blue GDP.
Strategic pillars include 10 new Institutes of Marine Biotechnology and a national ocean genome sequencing mission. These will unlock novel antibiotics and anti-aging compounds, positioning India in the $50 billion global marine biotech market.
Employment roadmap targets women and youth, with self-help groups in coastal villages adopting cage farming and value-added processing. Digital marketplaces will connect producers directly to urban consumers, minimizing middlemen.
Sustainability is woven throughout: zero-plastic ocean zones, AI-patrolled marine protected areas, and regenerative aquaculture reversing biodiversity loss. Singh highlighted Lakshadweep’s model, where solar-powered farms yield organic seafood exports.
International outreach features joint ventures with the US, Australia, and EU for technology transfer. The minister touted India’s leadership in the International Seabed Authority, securing equitable deep-sea mining rights.
Navigating hurdles like skill gaps and funding, the government pledges tax incentives and venture capital for ocean startups. Success stories from Kerala and Tamil Nadu fisheries cooperatives serve as scalable templates.
As the sun sets on traditional ocean economies, Singh heralds a biotech dawn. ‘Harnessing the deep blue will illuminate India’s path to global leadership,’ he concluded, inspiring stakeholders to embrace this watery wealth.