India and Norway co-hosted a high-level Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) event in Monaco, marking strengthened global cooperation for sustainable ocean governance.
India unveiled the SAHAV portal a GIS-based tool recognized as a Digital Public Good to support real-time, data-driven marine planning.
Successful MSP pilot projects in Puducherry and Lakshadweep are driving plans to scale the initiative across India’s entire coastline.
In a landmark move towards sustainable ocean governance, Union Minister of Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to a resilient Blue Economy during a high-level event commemorating World Ocean Day. The event, hosted aboard the historic Norwegian tall ship ‘Statsraad Lehmkuhl’ at the Port of Hercule in Monaco, was co-chaired by Dr. Singh and Norway’s Minister of International Development, Asmund Grover Aukrust.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the Monaco Marine Conference, Dr. Singh emphasized India’s advances in Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), describing it as a science-based tool essential for balancing biodiversity conservation with economic development. “MSP offers a strategic framework for optimizing ocean resources, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring coastal livelihoods,” he noted.
Highlighting India’s growing leadership in sustainable ocean management, Dr. Singh underlined the successful outcomes of the Indo-Norwegian Integrated Ocean and Research Initiative. Pilot MSP projects in Puducherry and Lakshadweep have addressed coastal erosion, safeguarded marine ecosystems, and promoted cross-sector collaboration in fisheries, tourism, and environmental conservation.
Marking a significant digital milestone, Dr. Singh announced the launch of SAHAV, a GIS-based decision support system recognized as a Digital Public Good. The platform provides real-time spatial data, empowering stakeholders including policymakers, researchers, and coastal communities to make informed decisions for marine resilience.
“Our science-driven, data-informed approach reinforces India’s vision for inclusive and sustainable ocean governance”, he said.
India now plans to scale MSP efforts across its coastline, cementing its status as a key global player in marine sustainability and innovation.