Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.

Introduction

India has an exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and a long coastline with rich and diverse marine living resources. The Government of India is promoting the ‘Blue Growth Initiative’ which focuses on the utilization of wealth from the marine and other aquatic resources of the country for improving the lives and livelihoods of fishermen and their families.

Body

Resource potentials of the long coastline The long coastline of India offers a wealth of resources that can significantly contribute to the country’s socio-economic progress.

• Fishery (मत्स्यपालन): The Indian coastline has the potential to yield around 4.4 million metric tonnes of marine fisheries annually. This can boost the fishing industry and provide a valuable source of income. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) aims to enhance fish production, create employment opportunities, and improve the income of fishers and fish farmers.

• Minerals (खनिज): The Indian Ocean is rich in minerals like cobalt, zinc, manganese, and rare earth materials. These minerals are crucial for manufacturing electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and car components, supporting the “Make in India” initiative.

• Manganese Nodules and Crusts (मैंगनीज गाँठें और क्रस्ट): These nodules contain significant quantities of minerals like manganese, iron, copper, nickel, and cobalt, which have various economic applications.

• Energy Resources (ऊर्जा संसाधन): The Indian Ocean contains petroleum and gas hydrates. Offshore oil production and gas hydrates can diversify India’s energy sources. Utilizing offshore energy resources like gas hydrates can diversify India’s energy mix, reducing dependence on traditional sources.

• Salts (लवण): Seawater contains economically valuable salts such as gypsum and common salt, which find use in various industries.

• Maritime Potential (समुद्री संभावना): Coastal shipping has come to play a significant role in India’s maritime trade and development. In FY23, major ports collectively handled a record-breaking 795 million tonnes of cargo, registering a 10.4% growth over the previous year.

• Employment Generation (रोजगार सृजन): Exploiting these resources will create jobs and improve livelihoods, promoting inclusive growth. Enhancing the fisheries sector can provide livelihoods to many.

• Food Security (खाद्य सुरक्षा): The fisheries sector and other seafood resources can enhance food security and combat malnutrition as fish is a nutritious source of food.

• Sustainable Development (सतत विकास): These marine resources can be a cornerstone of India’s economic growth and contribute to achieving the goal of becoming a 5 trillion-dollar economy. Embracing the “blue economy” through sustainable ocean resource utilization is key.

Disasters and ‘Disaster preparedness’ on coastline in India

India is the third worst-affected country due to climate-induced natural disasters. Disaster preparedness along the Indian coastline is of paramount importance to mitigate the impacts of these disasters.

• Cyclones (चक्रवात): India’s eastern and western coasts are vulnerable to cyclones. National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project, Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Project, Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ), and IMD’s Colour Coding of Cyclones are some initiatives.

• Tsunamis (सुनामी): The Indian Ocean region is prone to tsunamis, often triggered by undersea earthquakes. Early warning systems like the Indian Tsunami Early Warning System are in place.

• Floods (बाढ़): Disaster preparedness involves flood forecasting and monitoring, building resilient infrastructure, and promoting flood-resistant agricultural practices.

• Sea-Level Rise (समुद्री स्तर का बढ़ना): Preparedness includes adaptation strategies such as building infrastructure above expected sea levels, reforestation of mangrove forests, and urban planning.

• Tidal Waves (ज्वारीय तरंगें): Preparedness involves monitoring tides, developing early warning systems, and building resilient infrastructure.

Conclusion

Keeping in mind the recommendations of The Shailesh Nayak Committee on Coastal Regulation Zones and the proposal of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to establish a National Coastal Mission, we can not only conserve the coastal environment but also promote development, generate revenue, and provide employment. The National Coastal Mission will include all Phases of ICZM Project. Along with the same, the Government should try and develop Ecologically Sensitive Zones for conservation-based management.