The Minister underlined that the government’s focus on the Blue Economy reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of inclusive development that does not limit growth to the mainland. He said island territories and coastal regions must play a central role in India’s development journey.
Dr Singh recalled that since 2014, the Prime Minister has accorded high priority to the North Eastern region and island territories, a shift now visible in the scale of scientific, administrative and ministerial engagement in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Deep Ocean Mission Highlights National Commitment
Referring to the Deep Ocean Mission, Dr Singh said it was a matter of pride that the Prime Minister announced the mission twice from the ramparts of the Red Fort, underscoring the national priority accorded to marine resources.
He noted that marine resources, long underexplored, will play a decisive role in sustaining India’s growth trajectory as conventional resources face limitations. The Blue Economy, he said, has the potential to significantly contribute to employment, exports, environmental sustainability and economic resilience.
Pilot Projects and Technology Transfer
Key initiatives showcased during the programme included pilot-scale open sea cage culture of marine fish and large-scale seaweed cultivation. Dr Singh expressed satisfaction that technology transfer has already taken place, reflecting a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.
He highlighted that the Andaman & Nicobar region possesses unique marine species and coastal characteristics, making it an ideal location for such projects and enabling region-specific solutions.
Integrating Ocean Science with Biotechnology
The Minister emphasised the integration of biotechnology with ocean sciences, pointing out that India is among the few countries with a dedicated biotechnology policy, BioE3 — Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment.
Marine bio-resources, he said, offer opportunities for biodegradable alternatives to plastic, new medicinal compounds and high-value bio-products, strengthening both the economy and environmental sustainability.
Livelihoods, Women Participation and Global Markets
Dr Singh also highlighted emerging areas such as non-animal food products, alternative marine-based nutrition, waste-to-wealth technologies and export-oriented marine produce, noting strong international demand, particularly in European markets.
He stressed the importance of enhancing participation of Self-Help Groups and women to ensure these initiatives supplement household incomes while supporting the ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Local for Global’ vision.
Way Forward for Island Development
Concluding his address, the Minister praised the dedication of scientists and local stakeholders and expressed confidence that with institutional collaboration, including potential involvement of CSIR and biotechnology research centres, the islands can emerge as a cornerstone of India’s Blue Economy.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustained engagement with the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, stating that the initiatives launched will deliver long-term scientific, environmental and socio-economic benefits.