Nice, France – June 10, 2025: India took center stage at the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), calling for urgent global action on ocean conservation. Union Minister of Earth Sciences (Independent Charge), Dr. Jitendra Singh, outlined India’s multi-pronged approach to ocean governance, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and global partnerships.
At the conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, and held under the theme “Accelerating Action and Mobilizing All Actors to Conserve and Sustainably Use the Ocean,” Dr. Singh showcased India’s latest oceanic advancements—from its Deep Ocean Mission to the nationwide plastic ban and $80 billion Blue Economy projects—while urging for the adoption of a Global Ocean Pact.
India’s Deep Sea Leap: Samudrayaan Manned Submersible
One of the key announcements was the progress of the Samudrayaan project, a part of India’s ambitious Deep Ocean Mission, aiming to deploy the country’s first manned submersible by 2026. Capable of diving to depths of 6,000 meters, this technological feat marks a significant boost to India’s scientific exploration capabilities, positioning the country among global leaders in deep-sea research.
Combating Marine Pollution and Plastic Waste
India reinforced its commitment to ocean cleanliness by presenting data from its ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar’ campaign, which has resulted in the removal of over 50,000 tonnes of plastic waste from more than 1,000 km of coastline since 2022.
India’s support for a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty and finalization of a Draft Marine Litter Policy were highlighted, reflecting the country’s proactive engagement in international efforts to curb marine pollution.
Massive Blue Economy Push: Ports and Fisheries Modernization
Dr. Singh spotlighted the Sagarmala Programme and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), India’s flagship Blue Economy initiatives. These programs have catalyzed:
-
Over 600 port-led projects worth $80 billion, driving coastal economic development
-
$2.5 billion in fisheries sector investment, modernizing infrastructure and practices
-
10% increase in fish production
-
Creation of 1,000+ fish farmer producer organizations since 2022
These developments underscore India’s resolve to use ocean resources responsibly while enhancing livelihoods in coastal communities.
Marine Conservation and Climate Resilience
In line with global biodiversity commitments, India has expanded its Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to now cover 6.6% of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Minister also reported the restoration of over 10,000 hectares of mangroves and adoption of shoreline management plans rooted in nature-based solutions, reinforcing climate resilience through ecological restoration.
India has integrated ocean-based climate strategies into its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, showing its alignment with international climate goals.
Strengthening Global Ocean Governance: SAHAV and BBNJ
India’s commitment to science-based ocean management was showcased through the launch of ‘SAHAV’, a digital ocean data portal that enhances transparency and data sharing for marine governance.
India also threw its weight behind the ratification of the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Agreement and co-led ‘Blue Talks’ alongside France and Costa Rica. These actions position India as a driving force in shaping global marine policy frameworks.
A Call for the Nice Ocean Action Plan
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Jitendra Singh called on the global community to invest in innovation, ratify the BBNJ Agreement, and finalize the plastics treaty under a collective Nice Ocean Action Plan.
“The ocean is our shared heritage and responsibility,” he said. “India stands ready to collaborate with governments, private sector, civil society, and indigenous communities to ensure a sustainable ocean future.”
Conclusion: India as a Global Ocean Steward at UNOC3
India’s proactive engagement at UNOC3 reflects a transformative shift in its maritime outlook—from a coastal nation to a global ocean steward. Through its innovative technologies, ecological initiatives, and multilateral leadership, India is shaping a comprehensive, forward-looking ocean agenda that contributes meaningfully to SDG 14: Life Below Water and global marine sustainability.
For more details check press release on PIB website.
For more real-time updates visit Channel 6 Network.
