The Indian government is making significant strides in marine life conservation by integrating advanced technologies with policy frameworks to ensure better monitoring and protection of ocean ecosystems. By leveraging satellite imagery, remote sensing, and autonomous underwater vehicles like the C-bot, authorities can track sea surface temperatures, salinity levels, and water quality while also assessing coral health. These efforts are not only helping detect illegal fishing and monitor marine protected areas but also enhancing climate resilience through early warning systems.
A major focus has been the installation of artificial reefs, which play a crucial role in rehabilitating marine habitats, promoting biodiversity, and supporting sustainable fishing practices. The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has been at the forefront of coral restoration, leading India’s largest coral translocation project. This initiative successfully relocated over 16,500 corals to more suitable locations near Narara, Gujarat. Additionally, 2,000 artificial reef structures have been strategically placed to ensure long-term marine biodiversity preservation. The Department of Fisheries has sanctioned the installation of 937 artificial reef units across 11 coastal states and Union Territories under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), with an investment of ₹176.81 crore aimed at restoring aquatic ecosystems.
India has also emerged as a key player in tackling marine plastic pollution through its participation in the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) GloLitter Partnership Programme. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), aims to address plastic waste from shipping and fisheries at both national and regional levels. India has already formed a national task force and published an action plan to combat marine plastic litter from sea-based sources.
Advanced climate monitoring systems further strengthen conservation efforts. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) provides early warnings for potential coral bleaching events through its Coral Bleaching Alert System (CBAS), which uses satellite data to analyze thermal stress in coral environments. These findings, shared every three days, help authorities take timely action to protect coral reefs. Studies conducted by ZSI have also revealed significant bleaching impacts on hard coral species, and its climate modeling efforts continue to guide conservation strategies.
In addition to coral reef conservation, the Fishery Survey of India (FSI) plays a crucial role in monitoring fish stocks and assessing the effects of ocean temperature fluctuations on marine biodiversity. By providing scientific data and practical guidance, FSI helps fishers adapt to changing marine conditions and promotes sustainable fishing practices. Educational initiatives are also being carried out to raise awareness among coastal communities about climate-resilient fishing techniques and alternative livelihood options.
India’s commitment to marine conservation is backed by research institutions such as the CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), INCOIS, and the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). These organizations are continuously developing innovative climate-resilient technologies and strategies to safeguard the country’s rich marine ecosystems.
This information was shared by Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha. It underscores India’s dedication to protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring a sustainable future for its coastal communities.
