A significant step toward strengthening India’s scientific capabilities in marine and allied sciences was taken on May 27, 2025, as the CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), New Delhi, in collaboration with the CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), Goa, hosted a national workshop that brought together some of the country’s most distinguished minds in the field. The one-day event titled “Emerging Research Frontiers in Marine and Allied Sciences with Spotlight on the Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences (IJMS)” was a heartfelt effort to promote indigenous research, open-access publishing, and the role of the blue economy in India’s growth story.
The workshop commenced with ceremonial warmth and a welcome by Dr. Puspanjali Tripathy of CSIR-NIScPR, setting a collegial tone for the day. In her address, Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director of CSIR-NIScPR, passionately emphasized the importance of self-reliant scholarly publishing in building an Atmanirbhar Bharat. She reminded participants that the institute’s journals are open to all—free for authors and readers—encouraging a culture of accessible and inclusive scientific dialogue. She also praised the Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences (IJMS) for providing a dedicated platform for marine science research in India.
The event was enriched by thoughtful insights from several eminent speakers. Prof. Sunil Kumar Singh, Director of CSIR-NIO, highlighted the growing significance of marine sciences in tackling global challenges and building economic resilience. He underscored that India’s growth, especially through the blue economy, hinges on strengthening our scientific efforts and earning international recognition for our indigenous journals. Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Harilal B. Menon, Vice-Chancellor of Goa University, called on academic institutions to play a more proactive role in advancing both basic and applied marine research.
One of the most poignant moments came during the keynote address by Dr. Harsh K. Gupta, Former Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, who proposed that IJMS should publish a special issue showcasing India’s marine science achievements over the past 25 years. His appeal to collaborate and raise the standard of Indian scientific publications was received with great enthusiasm.
Throughout the day, the workshop maintained a balance between intellectual depth and practical insight. Dr. Nirmalya Majumdar’s talk illustrated CSIR-NIScPR’s efforts in nurturing a culture of indigenous publishing. Dr. Bhavya Khanna from the Ministry of Earth Sciences shared valuable advice on effective scientific writing, while Dr. Dinesh Velip introduced participants to the scope and achievements of IJMS.
A key highlight of the day was a panel discussion titled “Leader’s Dialogue: Blue Horizons and Beyond,” which explored the future of marine research in India. Chaired by Dr. S. S. C. Shenoi and joined by a distinguished group of scientists and policymakers, the discussion emphasized the need for policy-driven research, sustainability, and scientific leadership to meet the country’s long-term development goals.
Equally compelling was the invited talk by Prof. Devika P. Madalli from INFLIBNET Centre, who spoke about the promise of open science and equitable access in empowering Indian researchers and transforming knowledge sharing.
The workshop concluded with a comprehensive summary presented by Dr. Velip and closing reflections from Prof. Singh and Dr. Charu Verma. Their words reinforced the spirit of unity, purpose, and forward-looking ambition that defined the day.
This workshop was not just an academic gathering—it was a hopeful expression of India’s scientific potential. It reaffirmed the shared belief that with collaboration, commitment, and compassion, the nation can achieve excellence in marine research and contribute meaningfully to a sustainable and self-reliant future.
