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Oceans: India's Forgotten Frontier of Wealth & Risk
9 Oct
Summary
- India's coastlines hold immense marine biodiversity with over 20,000 animal species.
- Historically, India was a major maritime power, but faces modern ocean amnesia.
- Rising sea levels and climate change pose critical threats to coastal cities and islands.
India, historically a central player in maritime trade spanning over 2,000 years, appears to have lost touch with its seafaring heritage. Ancient sites like Lothal evidence extensive trade from the Harappan Civilisation, while the Chola dynasty expanded its influence across seas. Today, this rich maritime past is largely forgotten, with a land-based mental model prevailing.
Modern India's extensive coastline, spanning roughly 11,000 km, and its 2 million sq km Exclusive Economic Zone are critically important. This region hosts significant marine biodiversity, including numerous shark and ray species, and supports the livelihoods of about 16 million people. However, marine conservation remains a low priority compared to land-based efforts.
The nation faces a growing coastal crisis due to climate change, with low-lying cities vulnerable to rising sea levels and intensified cyclones. Events like the ongoing Super El Niño exacerbate these threats, impacting coral reefs and fisheries, potentially leading to internal displacement from islands like Lakshadweep.
Effective management of fisheries is hampered by a lack of robust, long-term data and limited monitoring. While ambitious government projects aim for maritime development, they often present contradictions between economic growth and environmental protection, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas like the Great Nicobar Island.
Innovative solutions are being explored, including blue-carbon initiatives and leveraging traditional knowledge. There is a growing recognition that a resilient future for India's oceans requires integrating cutting-edge technology with strong local institutions and a renewed engagement with its maritime identity.
