Bhubaneswar, April 17: The Department of Science and Technology in Odisha has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Centre for Coastal Research, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, to initiate a Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) program in the state.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Chara Majhi at the Lok Seva Bhawan.
According to an official statement from the state government, the primary aim of the MSP is to promote coastal economic development while ensuring the protection of the marine environment in Odisha.
During the event, the Chief Minister stated, “The MSP will not only enhance the blue economy but also ensure the protection of marine ecology. It will promote local coastal economies while safeguarding marine biodiversity.”
He further mentioned that the MSP will set a new benchmark for integrated coastal and marine planning.
It is noteworthy that since 2019, sustainable ocean planning has been underway in India with the collaboration of the governments of India and Norway.
In the first phase, it was implemented in Puducherry and Lakshadweep. In the second phase, Odisha has become the first state to implement it.
In his address, Chief Minister Majhi also highlighted that Odisha’s coastal and marine areas are rich in biodiversity and abundant natural resources.
He remarked, “These resources play a crucial role in people’s livelihoods, economic development, and environmental balance. However, due to increasing developmental activities, environmental impacts, and rising demands from various sectors, there is a need for scientific management of marine ecosystems. The MSP is a timely initiative in this direction.”
He added that the MSP will help meet the needs of fisheries, tourism, ports, marine energy, and other sectors while ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems.
The Chief Minister also noted that last August, Odisha launched the Marine Biotechnology Research and Innovation Corridor to promote the use of biotechnology for marine environmental protection and economic development.
This initiative will further strengthen the MSP efforts.
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S.C.H.
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