2023 - UDA Digest

Blue Economy Commentaries ESG and Climate Risk

Financing Blue Economy – Outcomes of COP28

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December 20, 2023
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Key Highlights The COP28 panel at the Commonwealth Pavilion showcased global collaboration for sustainable ocean management. Sustainable Finance Call: Secretary-General Patricia Scotland emphasized the urgent need for innovative finance for small island developing states (SIDS) and vulnerable coastlines. Innovative Mechanisms: The discussion explored emerging finance tools like blue bonds, debt-for-nature swaps, and insurance products. Blue Economy Challenges: Overfishing, pollution, and climate risks were highlighted as challenges facing the blue economy. SIDS Focus: Minister Tiwau stressed the unique challenges SIDS face, calling for sustainable and innovative finance solutions. Mobilizing Investments: Practical strategies for mobilizing investments in climate adaptation and ocean regeneration were shared. Ongoing Commitment: Secretary-General Scotland reiterated the Commonwealth’s commitment, paving the way for further discussions at the Commonwealth Ocean Ministers meeting in Cyprus. The recent high-level panel discussion convened at the Commonwealth Pavilion during COP28 in Dubai marked a significant stride towards fostering sustainable investment in the ocean. COP28 was the 28th annual United Nations (UN) climate meeting, where governments discussed how to limit and prepare for future climate change. The summit took place in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), from 30 November to 12 December 2023. This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Commonwealth in partnership with the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA) and the UNEP Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), brought together key stakeholders and experts to delve into pressing issues and opportunities integral to the advancement of the blue economy. The blue economy is the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs, and ocean ecosystem health. It encompasses many activities that impact all of us, such as renewable energy, fisheries, maritime transport, tourism, climate change, and waste management. The urgency of the matter, underscored by the global significance of COP28, highlighted the critical need to address challenges and unlock potential avenues for sustainable growth. Some of the challenges faced by the blue economy include overfishing, pollution, habitat loss, invasive species, ocean acidification, and rising sea levels. Some of the potential avenues for sustainable growth include innovative finance mechanisms, such as blue bonds, debt-for-nature swaps, insurance products, and blended finance; as well as enhancing ocean governance, cooperation, and capacity building. The panel discussion aimed to raise awareness, share best practices, and mobilise resources for the blue economy, in line with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14, which calls to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. Central to the discourse was a meticulous examination of the unique challenges faced by small island developing states (SIDS), low-income countries, and regions with coastlines susceptible to climate-related risks. These challenges include high exposure to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, as well as limited resources, trade dependence, and isolation. The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, KC, set the tone for the discussion by articulating the formidable barriers hindering these vulnerable nations from accessing conventional funding mechanisms, such as loans, grants, and debt relief. She pointed out that many of these countries are classified as middle-income or high-income, based on their per capita income, which does not reflect their structural vulnerabilities and development needs. Her assertion that current global financial institutions are ill-suited to meet the needs of the countries that require them most resonated as a rallying cry for transformative change. She called for a new approach that would take into account the multidimensional aspects of vulnerability and resilience, and provide tailored and flexible support to the most affected countries. Secretary-General Scotland emphasized the inadequacy of existing financial structures, citing their complexity, onerous processes, and protracted timelines as deterrents to timely and effective intervention. She pointed out that many SIDS are unable to access the funds they need from traditional sources, such as loans, grants, and debt relief, due to their income classification, lack of capacity, or high-risk perception. In asserting her commitment to ensuring that SIDS gain access to the essential financing required for climate adaptation and developmental pursuits, she underscored the imperative of exploring new and untapped streams of finance. She mentioned some examples of emerging and innovative finance mechanisms, such as blue bonds, debt-for-nature swaps, insurance products, and blended finance. She also highlighted the role of the Commonwealth in facilitating access to these mechanisms, through platforms such as the Commonwealth Blue Charter, the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub, and the Commonwealth Disaster Risk Finance Portal. This clarion call for innovative financial solutions underscored the overarching theme of the session: the need for agility and responsiveness in financial frameworks to match the urgency and magnitude of the challenges faced by vulnerable nations. She urged the international community to support SIDS in their efforts to build resilience and prosperity, and to recognise their unique vulnerabilities and potential. The blue economy is the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs, and ocean ecosystem health. It encompasses many activities that impact all of us, such as renewable energy, fisheries, maritime transport, tourism, climate change, and waste management. “The urgency of the matter, underscored by the global significance of COP28, highlighted the critical need to address challenges and unlock potential avenues for sustainable growth. Some of the challenges faced by the blue economy include overfishing, pollution, habitat loss, invasive species, ocean acidification, and rising sea levels. ” The thematic focus on the blue economy served as a cornerstone for deliberations, reflecting the recognition that oceans play a pivotal role in the global climate system and are central to the economic prospects of many nations. The acknowledgment of the interconnectedness of economic development, climate resilience, and ocean sustainability set the stage for a comprehensive exploration of financial mechanisms available to governments. The panel discussions scrutinized a spectrum of options, ranging from traditional public and private capital to international cooperation and cutting-edge financing models. As the participants engaged in a robust exchange of ideas, the conversations transcended theoretical discussions to practical strategies for mobilizing investments. Climate adaptation, ocean regeneration, and the development of a sustainable blue economy emerged as key focal points,

ESG and Climate Risk

Navigating the Tyranny of Small Decisions: A Comprehensive Examination of Policy Challenges

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December 16, 2023
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Key Highlights The concept rooted in prioritizing individual interests over the common good, highlighted by historical philosophers like Aristotle and Thucydides, was later coined by Alfred E. Kahn with the example of the railway system’s shutdown in Ithaca. William Odham extended the concept to environmental issues, emphasizing cumulative impact. Garrett Hardin’s “Tragedy of Commons” warns of common resource exploitation due to individual gains. Plastic pollution, urban flooding, and groundwater mismanagement are challenges resulting from the tyranny of small decisions. Origin of the Tyranny of Small Decisions Historical philosophers and economists, such as Thomas Mann and Eugen von Böhm-Bawerk, recognized the consequences of short-sighted decisions made without considering long-term implications. The concept of the “tyranny of small decisions” has deep historical roots, with ancient philosophers like Thucydides and Aristotle highlighting the human tendency to prioritize individual interests over the common good. The concept of the tyranny of small decisions, as articulated by Aristotle and later refined by economist Alfred E. Kahn, delves into the intricate dynamics of shared resources and the impact of individual choices on the common good. Aristotle observed that as more individuals partake in the utilization of a communal resource, the care for it diminishes, as personal interests often take precedence unless directly affected. “Alfred E. Kahn, in 1966, introduced the term “Tyranny of small decisions,” emphasizing how seemingly rational choices can collectively lead to irreversible destruction.” A poignant illustration of this phenomenon unfolded in Ithaca, New York, during the 1950s with the decline of the railway system. Despite the reliability of the railway, commuters made individual choices in favor of alternative transportation modes, resulting in the railway’s closure due to diminishing usage and revenue. While each decision seemed rational in isolation, the cumulative effect contradicted the community’s long-term interests, especially during adverse weather conditions. This example transcends economic realms, resonating in areas like environmental degradation, politics, and health outcomes. Environmental Degradation and the Tyranny of Small Decisions The environmentalist William Odham expanded the concept to environmental problems in 1982, emphasizing how the cumulative impact of small decisions contributes to environmental turmoil. Natural resources, essential to all, including food, coal, and water, often fall prey to exploitation and degradation due to the tyranny of small decisions. Garrett Hardin’s 1968 paper introduced the analogy of the commons, portraying the escalating pressures on finite resources as human populations burgeon globally. The tragedy of the commons unfolds in shared resources, akin to sheep grazing land, where private management preserves value and herd health, while communal management leads to overpopulation and resource exploitation. This, according to Hardin, is an inevitable consequence of individual gains, resulting in detrimental outcomes for all. The “Tragedy of Commons” asserts that individuals, pursuing self-interest, exploit shared resources, surpassing demand over supply, and culminating in overconsumption and resource depletion. Protecting commons has become an intricate challenge at local, national, and international levels. As individuals navigate their self-interest, a looming path to ruin unfolds. The interplay of human activities and climate-related factors intensifies catastrophic events with far-reaching consequences. Cultural lake eutrophication, the decline of green turtle populations, and the threat to endangered species like polar bears and humpback whales further illustrate the hidden dangers of seemingly insignificant decisions. The continuous addition of domestic sewage, industrial outlets, and urban development leads to irreversible damage to productive lands, groundwater resources, and tropical forests. “Historical examples, like the case of Chandola Lake in Gujarat, showcase how neglect and short-sighted decisions result in the loss of vital water bodies. The encroachment, pollution, and mismanagement of lakes in Ahmedabad exemplify the failure to incorporate natural drainage patterns and topography into urban planning, causing environmental havoc.” Climate change serves as a prominent example of the tyranny of small decisions, where incremental choices have led to profound and interconnected consequences, particularly in the context of the oceans. Despite being the largest habitat on Earth and a crucial system linked to human survival, the impact of increasing carbon dioxide emissions on the oceans has been overshadowed in the climate change discourse. The oceans, responsible for half of the planet’s oxygen production, climate regulation, and support for diverse ecosystems, have absorbed more than 93% of the heat added to the planet since the 1950s. However, this absorption comes at a cost manifested in rising ocean temperatures and increased acidification, evident in the melting Arctic Sea ice and coral bleaching. Immediate action is imperative, utilizing a comprehensive approach encompassing mitigation, protection, restoration, and adaptation. The consequences of climate change extend beyond oceanic impacts, affecting precipitation patterns and leading to increased flooding risks, especially in Europe. Fluvial flooding from extended periods of increased rainfall and pluvial floods caused by intense cloudbursts poses threats, resulting in fatalities, affecting millions, and incurring substantial economic losses. Sea-level rise, another consequence of climate change, amplifies the risk of coastal flooding and erosion, impacting communities, infrastructure, businesses, and ecosystems. The changing climate, characterized by altered rainfall patterns, increased evaporation, glacier melting, and rising sea levels, disrupts the availability of freshwater. More frequent and severe droughts, along with rising water temperatures, are anticipated to decrease water quality, fostering the growth of toxic algae and bacteria. This exacerbates the existing problem of water scarcity driven by human activities. A surge in cloudburst events is poised to further impact freshwater quality and quantity, as stormwater introduces untreated sewage into surface water. Handling the tyranny of small decisions in the context of oceans and freshwaters presents numerous challenges, each with its unique set of complexities. Examining specific issues such as plastic pollution, urban flooding, and groundwater mismanagement highlights the difficulties faced in addressing these environmental concerns because of small decisions at local, national and international level. Plastic Pollution in Oceans: “Approximately 80% of marine litter consists of plastic, with over 6.5 million tons of plastic making its way into the ocean each year. Daily, a staggering 15,343 tons of waste is dumped into the South Asian seas, originating from 60 major cities in India. he pervasive usage of plastics in various aspects of our daily lives, such

Blue Economy Commentaries ESG and Climate Risk Science and Technology

The Bridge Between Science and Tradition: Inclusive Policy Matters in Biosphere Reserves

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December 9, 2023
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Key Highlights Biosphere reserves promote holistic biodiversity conservation spanning flora, fauna, and communities. Local communities’ long-standing ties to these ecosystems offer essential insights into regional biodiversity, ecosystem dynamics, and sustainable land-use techniques. An inclusive policy for biosphere reserve management becomes important as it creates scientifically grounded strategies that honor the land’s cultural and historical significance by ensuring social equity in conservation efforts. Such a policy can improve conservation efforts while safeguarding the welfare of nearby communities by encouraging cooperation and partnerships. Inclusive policy application serves as a step towards establishing collaborative relationships, valuing local knowledge, and guaranteeing that local communities are represented at the biodiversity table. Biosphere reserves are uniquely positioned to address some of the most important environmental and societal issues of our day because they serve as living laboratories for biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and scientific study. Nonetheless, a crucial aspect frequently disregarded is the inclusive management of these reserves, which entails recognizing the indispensable part that nearby communities play in preserving these essential ecosystems. “To promote the use of both traditional and scientific knowledge, this commentary examines the need for more inclusive policies within biosphere reserves. These regulations can improve conservation efforts while safeguarding the welfare of nearby communities by encouraging cooperation and partnerships. ” They offer a chance to combine scientific knowledge with traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), as they are ecosystems with biological and cultural significance. TEK is the collection of knowledge, customs, and insights that are inherited from local communities and are passed down through generations. This knowledge stems from a deep comprehension of the plants, animals, and ecosystems in the area as well as long-standing sustainable practices. On the other hand, scientific knowledge offers a methodical and analytical way to comprehend nature. To supplement and improve TEK, it frequently includes sophisticated research tools and techniques. Two distinct knowledge systems working together can provide a comprehensive strategy for managing and protecting biosphere reserves. Living in and near biosphere reserves, local communities have a deep bond with the land because they have frequently coexisted with the ecosystems for generations. Their long-standing ties to these ecosystems offer essential insights into regional biodiversity, ecosystem dynamics, and sustainable land-use techniques. Their participation in the management of biosphere reserves is not only imperative from an inclusive standpoint but also from a practical one. By implementing conservation and sustainable development strategies that are ingrained in their customs, local communities can serve as stewards of these ecosystems. Since they frequently detect environmental changes before others do, their involvement can aid in monitoring and protecting biodiversity. Additionally, by creating sustainable livelihoods through ventures like eco-friendly farming, agroforestry, and community-based tourism, they can improve the well-being of their communities. Policies that promote inclusivity in biosphere reserves ought to proactively work to close the knowledge gap between traditional and scientific domains. Innovative approaches to the sustainable management of these areas can be produced through cooperation between local communities, scientists, and conservation organizations. It is possible to create scientifically grounded strategies that honor the land’s cultural and historical significance. This is a true partnership where local communities actively participate in decision-making processes, going beyond simple consultation. A good option to engage in this vertical is by conducting surveys for the local communities around biospheres to better understand their needs, and possibly hold vocational education for them on how biosphere reserves can be managed through them. Their opinions are heard, valued, and their knowledge is given equal weight. These collaborations may result in policies that consider the various needs and goals of all parties involved. There are several advantages to integrating traditional knowledge into the management of biosphere reserves. It improves our knowledge of regional ecosystems and encourages a feeling of accountability and ownership among local populations. As a result of communities taking an active role in the preservation of their surroundings, conservation efforts may be more successful. Furthermore, inclusive policies aid in addressing the intricate problem of social equity. These policies make sure that the advantages of conservation and sustainable development are distributed more fairly by considering the needs and rights of local communities. Consequently, these communities may experience increased well-being, a decrease in poverty, and economic empowerment. The need for inclusive policies within biosphere reserves is critical in a world that is changing quickly and where environmental challenges are getting more complicated. Our understanding of conservation, sustainable development, and scientific research could all benefit from these policies’ capacity to close the gap between tradition and modernity. “But to be truly inclusive, biosphere reserves’ practices and policies must be ingrained with inclusivity beyond rhetoric. The management, governance, and decision-making processes of biosphere reserves should involve local communities as essential stakeholders. Our job is to make sure their knowledge is respected and acknowledged because it is a valuable resource. ” In our global efforts to preserve biodiversity, slow down climate change, and attain sustainability, biosphere reserves serve as capable conduits. However, inclusive policies that value both traditional and scientific knowledge are necessary for to further these reserves to reach their full potential. It is a call to action to establish collaborative relationships, value local knowledge, and guarantee that local communities are represented at the table of biodiversity. By doing this, we can turn biosphere reserves into living laboratories for research and conservation as well as representations of a future that is more inclusive, egalitarian, and sustainable – one in which tradition and science coexist and protect the natural heritage of the planet for future generations. Kindly note that this article was originally published in the energy section of The Economic Times and has gained wide publicity and appreciation across multiple stakeholders. View Original Article Khwahish Vig Commentary By Khwahish Vig is a Research Intern at MRC. She is a final-year undergraduate student of the Symbiosis School of Liberal Arts (SSLA) majoring in International Relations and a double minor in Economics and Anthropology. Her research interests include international relations, politics, soft power, culture studies, environment and communities, and development studies.

Short Report

“Safeguarding the Indian Ocean: Navigating Multilateral Partnerships for Underwater Security and Environmental Resilience.”

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December 5, 2023
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Key Highlights Despite being a critical component of the Earth’s environment, the underwater ecosystem remains one of the least understood and underexplored areas. Multilaterally, India actively engages in regional forums and organizations such as the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) to collaborate on UDA initiatives. Bilaterally, India has bolstered UDA capabilities through strategic partnerships. For instance, its collaboration with the United States under the Maritime Security Dialogue has enabled intelligence sharing, joint patrols, and capacity building, enhancing UDA in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). China has been deploying vessel and submarine patrols, particularly in the Indian Ocean, near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which is of utmost significance to India. In recent years, ocean exploration has intensified, resulting in the discovery of untapped resources such as new medicines, genomes, food and energy resources, and even aspects of our own cultural heritage. A recent survey of world leaders revealed that SDG 14 on life underwater is considered the lowest priority among the SDGs. A comprehensive UDA framework will help identify areas at risk and, thereafter, actions can be taken to protect communities. An effective UDA framework can encourage a Safe, Secure, and Sustainable Growth model to manage the challenges and opportunities in the tropical littoral waters of the IOR Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) technologies are instrumental in fortifying maritime security and safety. The need for Underwater Domain Awareness in multilateral constructs is multifaceted and far-reaching. It enhances maritime security, safeguards valuable resources, protects the environment, enables rapid response to emergencies, fosters scientific discovery, and promotes international cooperation. Small Island Developing States (SIDs) in the Indian Ocean region face an array of climate risks that threaten their underwater ecosystems and overall sustainability. Executive Summary The recent geopolitical shift to the Indo-Pacific region has far-reaching implications for global politics and economies. Navigating this complex landscape requires countries in the region to balance economic opportunities and security concerns amidst intricate geopolitical dynamics. Oceans, covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface, play a pivotal role in the global ecosystem, particularly in the context of climate change. According to the World Economic Forum, the oceans contribute approximately $70 trillion to the global GDP, with their ecosystem services valued at $38 trillion annually. Furthermore, oceans facilitate 90% of global trade by volume and 40% by value, providing crucial support to billions of people residing near coastal areas who rely on the ocean for sustenance and livelihoods. Beyond their economic significance, oceans harbor rich biodiversity, including over 50% of species, some of which are classified as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered. Additionally, oceans serve as the largest carbon sink, absorbing a quarter of the world’s annual carbon dioxide emissions and mitigating climate change. The Indian Ocean holds strategic importance for four primary reasons. Serving as a major sea route connecting West Asia, Africa, and Southeast/East Asia, it handles half of the world’s sea-borne trade. With 16.8% of global oil reserves and 27.9% of natural reserves, the Indian Ocean spans three continents and is home to 35% of the world’s population, making it central to the geostrategic aspirations of both regional and extra-regional powers. Recognizing the underwater domain’s importance is critical for ensuring maritime system stability, technological advancements, and economic cooperation. The proposed Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) framework by the Maritime Research Centre (MRC) aims to address policy and technology needs while enhancing acoustic capacity and capability. As global attention shifts to the maritime domain, particularly the Indian Ocean region, the Bay of Bengal emerges as a strategically significant area. UDA in the Bay of Bengal is essential for protecting marine resources from potential threats and risks. With the global future dependent on healthy oceans, there is a growing recognition of the need to explore the underwater ecosystem independently of surface marine activity. Despite being a critical component of the Earth’s environment, the underwater ecosystem remains one of the least understood and underexplored areas. There is an increasing need for a better understanding of this ecosystem due to its significant ecological, economic, and scientific importance. Biodiversity: The underwater ecosystem is incredibly diverse, housing a wide range of species from microscopic plankton to massive whales. Researchers estimate that there may be millions of undiscovered species in the world’s oceans. Understanding this biodiversity is essential for conserving and managing marine resources effectively. Climate Regulation: Oceans play a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate. They absorb and store vast amounts of carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change. Additionally, the temperature and circulation patterns of the oceans influence weather patterns and can impact global climate systems. Food Security: Over 3 billion people rely on seafood as their primary source of protein. A better understanding of the underwater ecosystem is essential for sustainable fisheries management to ensure food security for current and future generations. Pharmaceutical Potential: Marine organisms have provided numerous compounds that have led to the development of pharmaceuticals. Studying the underwater ecosystem could reveal new sources of potentially life-saving drugs. Economic Value: The ocean economy is worth trillions of dollars annually, including industries such as shipping, tourism, and offshore energy production. A comprehensive understanding of the underwater ecosystem is crucial for sustaining these economic activities. Conservation: Human activities, including overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction, pose significant threats to marine ecosystems. Improved knowledge can inform conservation efforts and help protect vulnerable species and habitats. Scientific Discovery: The underwater ecosystem holds countless mysteries and has the potential to advance our understanding of life on Earth. Discoveries in this realm can lead to groundbreaking scientific advancements. This notwithstanding, the underwater ecosystem is a critical but poorly understood part of our planet. As we face increasing environmental challenges and seek sustainable solutions, a comprehensive understanding of the underwater ecosystem is essential. Therefore, investments in research, technology, and conservation efforts are necessary to unlock the secrets of the deep sea and ensure the long-term health of our oceans and efforts to gain a better understanding of the underwater ecosystem include: Marine Research: Scientists use advanced technologies such

Short Report

New Frontiers of India’s Underwater Security Need for CMF in UDA through iCET

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December 5, 2023
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Key Highlights Routine underwater commercial activities are being targeted and weaponised, increasing vulnerabilities to critical national infrastructure. Against this backdrop, the importance of Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) need not be overstated. It studies the scope of increasingly vulnerable maritime infrastructure like oil and gas pipelines, electricity grids, and underwater communication networks that have emerged as the new frontlines of potential conflict. Commercial offshore infrastructure like undersea internet cables, power cables and oil and gas pipelines have become potential targets. States increasingly depend on infrastructure and assets partially or completely located outside their jurisdiction and over which they have little or no control. Most of the critical infrastructure is owned by the private sector. India is barely present in undersea fibre-optic cables despite being one of the world’s largest telecom and data markets and having the world’s second-largest digitised citizenry (after China). The National Security Advisors of India and the US launched the initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) on 01 February 2023, which promises to foster an open, accessible, secure technology ecosystem. India-US iCET has opened opportunities to develop an innovation bridge for cutting-edge commercial technologies in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced wireless, jet engines, munition-related technologies, maritime security and intelligence surveillance reconnaissance (ISR), space, and resilient semiconductor value chains. One of the main uses of subsea technology is for offshore drilling and cable laying. Indigenised technologies produced by the DRDO or NIOT have neither been commercialised nor have been inducted into defence. In the digital domain, insertion of foreign technologies is inexorable and omnipresent. There is a need to reduce vulnerabilities to external influence and dependencies as a potential security threat by harnessing control over key critical technologies and infrastructures. The advantages of underwater commercial warfare are their deniability and the ability to disrupt the opponent economically before or during a war. The modern trends of warfare and sabotage have re-kindled the importance of Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) after the Cold War. While maritime security and cybersecurity are the most notable policy fields for underwater security, a broader policy understanding is essential for a more comprehensive security of Commercial Offshore Infrastructure Systems (COIS). It will need ocean governance, digital policy and external action. Introduction One of the goals of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ launched by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri in September 2022 is Civil-Military Fusion (CMF). The concerted effort by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has not just increased the indigenous components of defence acquisition, but India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high of ₹15,920 crore in FY 2022-23. Indian Navy’s consistent endeavour has been appreciated by Hon’ble Prime Minister during the recent ‘Swavlamban’ Seminar. However, changes in the nature and character of warfare have forced all countries to revisit their maritime defence strategies. Sabotage, grey-zone conflict, and asymmetric warfare are altering the balance of threat, even when the balance of power between countries remains relatively unchanged. Routine underwater commercial activities are being targeted and weaponised, increasing vulnerabilities to critical national infrastructure. Against this backdrop, the importance of Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) need not be overstated. However, the mere absorption of advanced underwater technologies would be inadequate for optimal defence for critical underwater national assets, constituting an effective deterrence, or conducting an offensive/covert action against an adversary. There will be a need to synthesise the existing Organisations, Innovations, and Logistics, or the OIL of CMF for enhancing the UDA. This paper seeks to examine the application of CMF in UDA. It studies the scope of increasingly vulnerable maritime infrastructure like oil and gas pipelines, electricity grids, and underwater communication networks that have emerged as the new frontlines of potential conflict. In addition, it identifies the possible vulnerabilities of adversaries in the immediate neighbourhood. The paper further explores the increased weaponisation of liminal technologies that could morph UDA from the benign realms of Science and Technology (S&T) to geopolitical and strategic contestation for monopoly in the years ahead. Therefore, the National Security Council will also have to identify new technologies requiring collaboration under the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) in UDA domain. Finally, the paper suggests for enhancing India’s maritime security, minor structural changes that would be necessary by synthesising Organisations, such as International Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), The Coast Guard, National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), Ministry of Communications (MoC), and Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MoEIT). Read Full Article Here Commodore (Dr.) Somen Banerjee (Retd.) About Author Commodore (Dr.) Somen Banerjee (Retd.) is an Anti-Submarine Warfare specialist and has commanded three worships of the Indian Navy. He has served as Senior Fellow at the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF), and the National Maritime Foundation (NMF) in Delhi. As an academic, he conceived and executed the idea of India joining the Indian Ocean Commission and the Djibouti Code of Conduct as an Observer. He has authored two books – Maritime Power through Blue Economy and Sea of Collective Destiny: Bay of Bengal and BIMSTEC, published papers in Taylor & Francis, SAGE, and IFAJ, and written several issue briefs and commentaries. His recent paper, entitled Civil- Military Fusion, was published by CENJOWS in March 2023. He is a MSc form the Madras University and a MPhil, PhD from Mumbai University in Defence and Strategic Studies.

Experts' Articles Geopolitics and IR Maritime Security

Strategic Security @100 – A New Perspective Based on the Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) Framework for the Tropical Waters of the Indo-Pacific Strategic Space

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November 29, 2023
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Key Highlights The specific and specialized technology required for deep sea mining and the added sustainability concerns can only be addressed with enhanced Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA). The acoustic survey being the only means for UDA, requires specialized acoustic capacity and capability building. Strategic security @ 100 refers to 2047 or whereabouts, not just when India celebrates the centenary of its Independence but also many other nations in the region that attained their freedom largely from the European powers. The primary threat and the resources are underwater and if we do not build significant acoustic capacity & capability to achieve effective UDA, we will never be able to attain strategic autonomy for ourselves. The digital transformation driven by the UDA framework will be the way forward for effective governance of the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific strategic space. Strategic Security@100 has to make sure we have been able to put in place a safe, secure, sustainable growth model for all in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific strategic space. Background The Indo-Pacific region is gaining strategic relevance for varied reasons. The strategic trade route passing through the region makes it extremely sensitive from an economic standpoint. The energy resource movement from the middle east to the far east has significant strategic value. The raw material travels from the African coast to the far east and the return journey of finished goods further makes it a critical trade route. The political volatility in the region makes it a fertile ground for the extra-regional powers to meddle in the domestic politics. The non-state actors are operating freely and multiple states are using the non-state actors as the regular instrument of state diplomacy to export terror. The fragmented geopolitics of the region ensures no long-term regional consolidation takes place. The global thrust on sustainability and climate change risk management is another tool for the west to drive their agenda in the region and forever keep the local powers under their dominance. The Electric Vehicle (EV) drive requires a massive amount of rare earth material, which can only be replenished from the deep oceans to meet the targeted demand. The specific and specialized technology required for deep sea mining and the added sustainability concerns can only be addressed with enhanced Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA). The post pandemic era and the Russia-Ukraine war has added to the food security concerns for a large majority of the developing world. The oceans and the freshwater systems are a great source of food and we need to increasingly look towards the underwater domain to ensure no one remains hungry. The nutrient value of seafood is undoubtedly very high and has significant potential to address the universal food security concern. “It is well known that 80% of the global population resides within 200 kms from the coast. Thus, what happens in the oceans and the freshwater systems has a massive socio-political dimension. It is deeply intertwined with the socio-cultural aspects and off-course has a socio-economic dimension.” The Indo-Pacific strategic space, by definition, is the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It is important to remind ourselves of the unique characteristics of the tropical waters before we even look at any way ahead. The tropical waters have three main uniqueness, namely the rich biodiversity that can be leveraged for numerous socio-economic benefits, if harvested effectively. The second is the abundant availability of resources like rare earth minerals and many others with very high commercial value. The last but probably the most critical aspect is the sub-optimal sonar performance. The acoustic survey being the only means for UDA, requires specialized acoustic capacity and capability building. The tropical waters cause degradation of performance of the order of 60%. The Sonar technology developed during the Cold War Era, was primarily for the military requirement of the two superpowers. However, their theatre of operations was the temperate and polar regions of the Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom (GIUK) gap. The acoustic propagation in the temperate & polar waters are very different from the tropical conditions. The acoustic definition of shallow water is based on the multiple interaction of the acoustic signal with the two boundaries (Surface & Bottom) due to reflection, compared to deep waters, where the interaction is minimal due to refraction being the primary mode of propagation. The depth of Sound Axis (axis of minimum sound speed) is the major determinant for this aspect. The depth of sound axis at the equator is 2000 m, whereas it is 50 m near the poles. Thus, the import of sonars, irrespective of the application (military or non-military), without customization to the tropical conditions, makes no sense. The powers in the Indo-Pacific region and the extra-regional powers are maintaining a very close watch on the developments in the region. The geopolitical and geostrategic interventions by the global powers are ensuring a complex strategic security scenario. Strategic security refers to the management of both the internal and external threat. The marine and freshwater systems are needed to be factored in the strategic security matrix. Strategic security @ 100 refers to 2047 or whereabouts, not just when India celebrates the centenary of its Independence but also many other nations in the region that attained their freedom largely from the European powers. The British maritime forces withdrew from the region in the next decade of the 1960s, and opened up the entire tropical waters for the local powers to manage on their own. The newly emerged global power (the Americas) moved in swiftly. The French still retain a large maritime under their control in the IOR. The colonial powers left the local nations with no resources and minimal strategic thinking capabilities to build their own vision. The local nations continued to get manipulated by the European powers, in terms of their maritime hardware and technical knowhow. In the absence of the customization to the local tropical conditions, this hardware presented sub-optimal performance. The situation is far better now, both economically and politically, thus it is time

ESG and Climate Risk Science and Technology

Biofouling in the Indo-Pacific: A Menace to Shipping

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November 22, 2023
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Key Highlights The Indian Ocean region is biodiverse, and its unique oceanic characteristics pose a significant challenge of biofouling for vessels. Baseline studies are required for a holistic understanding of biofouling species, and appropriate antifouling measures should be adopted. Antifouling coatings are the conventional techniques but may cause potential environmental degradation. Ultrasonic antifouling systems are on the rise. The oceanic conditions significantly affect the efficient operations of acoustic sensors and require modifications to the vessel’s systems. UDA must be understood to develop systems catering to the regional conditions. Ocean shipping constitutes approximately 90% of global trade, with the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) serving as a vital maritime trade hub for centuries. It is the busiest trade corridor, facilitating around four-fifths of the world’s oil and gas shipments and one-third of bulk cargoes, ensuring global access to essential resources such as food, precious metals, and energy. The IOR holds strategic significance, drawing attention from major global powers. Sustaining many cargo ships becomes imperative due to the challenging climatic, biological, and chemical conditions at sea. In tropical environments, biofouling poses a significant challenge for commercial ships, boats, and recreational yachts. Naval vessels, including destroyers, aircraft carriers, and frigates, are particularly susceptible to biofouling due to their unique characteristics—they operate at high speeds but spend a substantial amount of time at anchor. Biofouling is defined as the undesirable biological growth on the exposed underwater surfaces of these vessels. The elevated temperatures and abundant nutrients in tropical waters foster the development of marine organisms. The maritime community and shipbuilders have been addressing the adverse impacts of biofouling on ships for centuries. Initially, there were two primary concerns, with the first, now uncommon in commercial shipping, involving the rapid deterioration of wooden hulls below the waterline due to wood rotting fungi. The second challenge, still prevalent in contemporary commercial shipping, pertains to the impact of biofouling on a vessel’s speed and manoeuvrability. Additionally, there are repercussions related to corrosion, blockage of seawater systems, and effects on fuel and cargo. While issues such as the dead weight of biofouling organisms and the obscuring biofilm on the hull are not as pronounced on ships as on offshore platforms, biofouling’s economic and operational costs remain significant in the shipping industry. This translates into increased power requirements, leading to higher fuel consumption or reduced speed for the same power. In both scenarios, financial expenditures rise, contributing to heightened environmental damage. Conducting baseline studies is essential to comprehend biofouling’s causative factors on hulls and develop effective antifouling technologies. Biofouling can be broadly categorised into macrofouling, involving the colonisation of multicellular macro-organisms like macroalgae, barnacles, and tubeworms, and microfouling, which encompasses the colonisation of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, Cyanobacteria, and the polymeric slimy substances they generate. These substances facilitate the adhesion and growth of these organisms on surfaces. The measurement, monitoring, and regulation of physicochemical parameters in the environment are pivotal in mitigating biofouling. Factors such as the availability of larvae in the local ecosystem, the presence of necessary nutrients, and variations in sunlight penetration at different depths, among others, act as limiting factors for the recruitment of various biofouling organisms. Environmental variables like pH, salinity, flow rates, and temperature influence and modulate fouling. Biofouling: Barnacles, algae and shellfish on the hulls of ships (Illustration: Ricardo Macía / China Dialogue Ocean) The utilisation of anti-fouling coatings represents one of the earliest antifouling methods, with practical commercial applications dating back to around 1860. Antifoulants are commonly incorporated as additives in the topcoat paint of marine protective coating systems. These chemicals are gradually released into the saltwater, impeding the attachment of barnacles and other marine organisms to the ship. The effectiveness of certain biocides varies against different forms of fouling, and copper, for instance, demonstrates high efficacy against a broad spectrum of fouling organisms, particularly immobile invertebrates such as barnacles and tubeworms. These paints are extensively applied to vessel hulls and typically require reapplication every 1–3 years. Despite their effectiveness, research indicates that the residual presence of these substances in the water can lead to the mortality of marine organisms, causing damage to ecosystems and infiltrating the food web. Tributyltin (TBT), an organotin chemical identified in the 1960s, is a highly efficient biocide employed in anti-fouling paints. However, the accumulation of TBT in the environment risks marine ecosystems, given its persistence and bio-accumulative properties, resulting in long-term consequences. Extensive research has been conducted on natural product biocides over the years, and while some exhibit notable antifouling properties, further investigation is required to assess their environmental impact. In 1989, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) acknowledged the adverse environmental effects of organotin compounds. In 1990, the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) recommended that governments take measures to eliminate anti-fouling paints containing TBT on non-aluminium-hulled ships. Subsequently, in November 1999, the IMO adopted an Assembly resolution instructing the MEPC to develop a globally binding instrument to address the harmful effects of anti-fouling systems on ships. The resolution called for a worldwide ban on the application of organotin compounds in anti-fouling systems by January 1, 2003, and a complete prohibition by January 1, 2008. Antifouling companies have since engaged in significant research and development to create marine coatings that offer economic benefits without associated environmental drawbacks. With technological advancements, electrolytic systems became one of the most commonly used systems to fight biofouling on ships. The electrolytic system has pairs of anodes, mainly copper and aluminium. An electric direct current is conducted through the copper anodes, generating ions that are transported with saltwater throughout the whole pipe network. The presence of copper ions in saltwater inhibits the attachment and proliferation of marine organisms on the surface of the pipes. The purpose of the second anode is to inhibit the corrosion of the metal surface. The iron anodes inhibit the degradation of metal oxide coatings by corrosive substances present in saltwater. A control panel gauges and oversees the production of each of the anodes. Acoustic systems are widely acknowledged as highly effective in preventing biofouling, claiming to

Geopolitics and IR

Indo Pacific: The New Theatre

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November 7, 2023
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Key Highlights A sizable percentage of global trade flows pass through the Indo-Pacific area. While the United States has mutual defence treaties with other Asian nations like Japan and South Korea, it does not have such an arrangement with Taiwan. The long-term impact of projects like the QUAD and AUKUS on the regional balance of power is unclear, but their role in resisting China’s dominance in the Indo-Pacific area is likely to remain a prominent topic of dispute in regional geopolitics. The long-term impact of projects like the QUAD and AUKUS on the regional balance of power is unclear, but their role in resisting China’s dominance in the Indo-Pacific area is likely to remain a prominent topic of dispute in regional geopolitics. India has been working on a “Necklace of Diamonds” to counter China’s “String of Pearls”. To better inform governmental and military decisions, UDA intends to give information on all movements and developments across the Indian Ocean. The Viceroy of Portuguese possessions in India, Francisco de Almeida was the one who introduced the policy of “Blue water” during the 16th century. Instead of creating fortified trading posts along the coasts of Africa and India, as the Portuguese had done previously, the Blue Water policy emphasized establishing free trade routes. Almeida envisioned building a strong navy that would allow Portugal to dominate commerce and control the sea lanes in the Indian Ocean. This change of policy yielded dividends for the Portuguese as they were successful in consolidating Portuguese control over trade in the Indian Ocean (Albeit not for long). History is full of such examples that reflect that the maritime domain has always played a pivotal role in the emergence of new powers whether it be the Greek empire and their control over the Mediterranean which led to the establishment of colonies in Asia and Africa in the 5th and 6th century or the Spanish Armada which led to colonization of many countries the common thing in both the empires was their advancement in Navy which led. Hence it is safe to say that it is a time-tested prophecy that dominance in the maritime domain has a resounding effect on the regional dynamics and the international security architecture. Even currently, the rivalry among the world’s major powers is as fierce as ever. Amidst, all the power struggle, the Indo-Pacific has emerged as a hotspot of international activity since the end of the Cold War. There is rising worry about economic, military, and political trends because of rising maritime disputes in the Indo-Pacific. There have been Cold War–style tensions between China and the United States because of China’s efforts to expand its control over neighbouring islands and countries. Although the large chunk is often the most visible but what often misses the sight is the nuances that lead to the creation of those large chunks. As the famous quote depicts “Rome wasn’t built in a day”, so it’s important to keep a note of recent developments in the Indo-Pacific region as currently it’s shaping the policy of many countries. Why focus on the Indo-Pacific? One may wonder why such zeal for the establishment of ports or naval bases in the Indian Ocean region (IOR) has been there. Well, it is important from both an economic and strategic point of view. A sizable percentage of global trade flows pass through the Indo-Pacific area. In 2020, the Asia-Pacific region (which encompasses the Indo-Pacific region) was responsible for 50.2% of global merchandise exports and 45.1% of global merchandise imports, as reported by the World Trade Organization (WTO). It is also through the Strait of Malacca that 80% of China’s oil shipments arrive. For this reason, China can’t afford to create alternatives to the Strait of Malacca. That is why China wants to get along well with Malacca Strait neighbours like Malaysia and Singapore. The Indo-Pacific area is home to several of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, including the Strait of Malacca, which links the Indian and Pacific oceans. Many of the world’s biggest ports are located here as well, and that includes Shanghai, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The Indo-Pacific is also a hotspot for diplomatic and military rivalries. The Strait of Malacca and the South China Sea are two of the most important maritime chokepoints for international commerce and energy supply. Several territorial conflicts are still going on in the area, the longest of which are in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. “The future of the Indo-Pacific will impact all our futures.” – Scott Morrison (Australia’s ex-Prime Minister) China’s growing assertion in the Indian Ocean region and South China Sea What has caught the attention of people and countries across the globe has been the schism between China and the USA, many reasons have been attributed to the discourse, but none is clearer than the altercation between China and Taiwan and China and Hong Kong for territorial sovereignty. Amidst all this it may be surprising to know that the USA has for long, dawned the role of protector for Taiwan. While the United States has mutual defence treaties with other Asian nations like Japan and South Korea, it does not have such an arrangement with Taiwan. However, it has maintained its political allegiance to Taiwan by the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979. Despite having cordial ties with one of the most advanced military nations in the world the threat of territorial sovereignty looms over Taiwan. A Similar kind of protection was once enjoyed by Hong Kong as Hong Kong Britain was its protector. Yet the same threat looms over Hong Kong. The strife does not stop at the Historical perspective (China’s argument for its claim over Hong Kong and Taiwan). In recent years it can be observed that China has a feud with many neighbouring countries including the Philippines, Japan, and Vietnam to name a few. China’s expansive claims of control over the sea have angered rival claimants Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam by threatening their

Science and Technology

Blue Carbon, Oceans and Underwater Issues – A New Perspective based on the Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) Framework

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October 26, 2023
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Key Highlights The recently concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi made a successful declaration to unite the global community and commit to “One Earth, One Family, and One Future.” Biosphere reserves are a great concept to ensure the protection of ecologically sensitive regions from the onslaught of so-called development. The UDA framework enables policy and technology interventions, along with acoustic capacity and capability building. The UDA framework enables policy and technology interventions, along with acoustic capacity and capability building. UDA-driven Biosphere Reserves need to be established with a clear focus on digital transformation India is emerging as a global power, and the global community has significant expectations from Indian leadership to demonstrate affirmative action in terms of sustainable growth and climate change risk management. The geopolitical and geostrategic center of gravity in the 21st century has shifted to the Indo-Pacific region, and more and more nations are maintaining their strategic presence in the region. The Indo-Pacific strategic space, by definition, includes the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Thus, the contemporary focus must include the blue economy and ocean issues. The 2015 Paris summit for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), under the Conference of the Parties (COP21), declared the roadmap to achieve climate goals. The 196 parties committed to the Paris declaration and formulated their own Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). India updated its NDC in August 2022 in a Union Cabinet meeting chaired by the Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The updated NDC is a step towards achieving India’s Panchamrit (five nectar elements) declarations at COP26 (Glasgow, United Kingdom), with enhanced climate targets. It also aims towards reaching net-zero emissions by 2070. The recently concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi made a successful declaration to unite the global community and commit to “One Earth, One Family, and One Future.” The New Delhi Leaders Declaration has an exclusive component on harnessing and preserving the Ocean-based Economy. The declaration starts with a commitment to strong, sustainable, balanced, and inclusive growth. It is important to note that the declaration brings together diverse global powers with their unique geopolitical and geostrategic priorities to agree on a common agenda for global growth and prosperity. India today is partnering with global powers to shape the new world order. Biosphere reserves are a great concept to ensure the protection of ecologically sensitive regions from the onslaught of so-called development. However, with changing times and excessive population pressures, the exclusive nature of biosphere reserves needs to give way to an inclusive concept. Coastal and riverine communities have to be allowed to coexist with nature. Traditional practices have to be encouraged, and modern science and technology tools have to be deployed to monitor and optimize the harnessing of underwater resources. Non-intrusive monitoring and an ecosystem-based approach, rather than species-specific studies, need to be prioritized. Conflict among multiple stakeholders, namely strategic security, the blue economy, environment & disaster management, and science & technology, needs to be minimized. Tropical waters are extremely rich in biodiversity and underwater resources, both in marine and freshwater systems. However, they also face massive population pressures in coastal and riverine regions. Socio-economic and socio-political realities have ensured pre-modern governance mechanisms that are unable to address new challenges. The most important aspect is the sub-optimal sonar performance, which is vital for any underwater monitoring. The sonars designed and developed by the West during the Cold War period are suited for temperate and polar regions. The degradation of performance when deployed in tropical waters is of the order of 60%, thus demanding massive customization. However, customization demands a large-scale Shallow Water Acoustic Measurement (SWAM) exercise that is highly resource-intensive. Developing countries in the Indo-Pacific strategic space can hardly prioritize science & technology, thus remaining dependent on the West for such knowhow. The fragmented approach among these nations internally and at the regional level further aggravates the problem. Capacity and capability building across stakeholders and multiple levels must be undertaken in a nuanced manner. The Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) framework, proposed by the Maritime Research Center (MRC) in partnership with M/S NirDhwani Technology Pvt Ltd (NDT), is a unique concept for managing the challenges and opportunities of tropical waters. The UDA framework enables policy and technology interventions, along with acoustic capacity and capability building. The pooling of resources and synergizing of efforts across stakeholders, as shown in Figure 1 below, provides a schematic representation of the UDA framework. Fig. 1 Comprehensive Perspective of UDA Framework The horizontal construct presents the four stakeholders and their specific resource requirements, along with the unique application-specific deployments. However, the core focus in tropical waters will be acoustic capacity and capability building to yield meaningful outcomes. The vertical construct includes a bottom-up approach, commencing with site-specific data collection, followed by analysis and the formulation of a regulatory framework. The current top-down approach, with minimal site-specific appreciation, is ad hoc and vulnerable to manipulation by external powers. Digital transformation will be a critical element in building a comprehensive and inclusive governance mechanism. Policies driven by ground inputs and supported by modern acoustic technology represent the most optimal way forward. “The UDA framework, as presented above, provides a structured approach to enable the pooling of resources and the synergizing of efforts, not only among stakeholders within the nation but also among nations in the region.” The oceans are a major source of carbon sequestration, making effective ocean management crucial to meeting COP targets. Real-time monitoring of underwater parameters is essential for ensuring effective ocean health management, with the governance mechanism relying on digital analytics inputs. Short and long-term Modeling and Simulation (M&S) efforts, along with AI-based data analytics, will be necessary to facilitate digital transformation. The digital infrastructure should manage multiple ocean-related and underwater aspects, not limited to blue carbon alone. The United Nations’ declaration of the Decade of Ocean Sciences for Sustainable Development is significant, focusing on oceans and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) has become the de facto governance tool

Blue Economy

Charting a New Course: India’s Aquaculture Renaissance in Sync with G20’s Human-Focused Paradigm

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October 22, 2023
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Key Highlights Anthropocentric or Human centric paradigm involves alignment of the humans at the center of economic, social and environmental considerations G20 summit (hosted by India) outcomes suggest the growth of Blue economy along the lines of human centric development, to support livelihood opportunities Aquaculture is a great way to increase the penetration of blue economy in rural areas, and there are already many initiatives and schemes launched by the government from 2020 including PMMSY, KCC and the “SagarParikrama” initiative Aquaculture is a great way to increase the penetration of blue economy in rural areas, and there are already many initiatives and schemes launched by the government from 2020 including PMMSY, KCC and the “SagarParikrama” initiative In this article, we examine the methods needed to apply this human-centric paradigm to aquaculture in India. Aquaculture to achieve Anthropocentric development The Anthropocentric Paradigm offers a revolutionary framework for aquaculture that is focused on the prosperity and well-being of persons and communities. The Indian government can advance this crucial industry by acknowledging that human-centric initiatives are essential for sustainable development in aquaculture. “Developing Aquaculture Knowledge and Skills Fostering access to high-quality education and opportunity for skill-building is a core tenet of human-centric development in Indian aquaculture.” The government can make investments in aquaculture-specific training programmes, technical colleges, and research facilities. There are existing research organizations like Central Institute for Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA), National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Central Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) working towards providing adequate research support to the aquaculture advancement in the country. They release crucial information in forms of journals and articles to demonstrate the ways to optimize the yields from the fisheries farms. This gives people the skills they need to advance innovation and productivity in the industry, increasing livelihoods and enhancing the sector’s contribution to the economy in the process. Providing Access to Healthcare and Promoting Well-Being A healthy and effective staff is essential for a thriving aquaculture industry. Accessible healthcare services, such as routine physicals, immunisations, and specialized treatment for workplace dangers, should be a government priority. The government can guarantee a healthy farmers workforce that successfully supports the expansion of the aquaculture industry by attending to the health needs of individuals working in the industry. Figure 1: The sustainability, climate change protection, job creation and inclusion as an important part of the Blue economy. Fostering livelihoods and entrepreneurship A key component of an anthropocentric approach to aquaculture development is encouraging entrepreneurship and developing sustainable livelihoods (It is a main aim of the Indian government to appreciate aquaculture development under UN-SDGs, openly mentioned in the government’s PIB release documents). By providing financial assistance, mentorship programmes, and simplified licensing procedures for aquaculture businesses, the government may promote an environment that is favorable to economic growth. This gives people the freedom to start their own businesses, strengthen local economies, and lessen their reliance on conventional employment patterns. “The local economy bubble will be a self-sustaining structure that will enhance the growth of the community by creating a cycle where every component supports every other component to grow.” Access to Social Safety Nets on an Equal Basis Creating extensive social safety nets is a key component of human-centric growth in aquaculture. Access to insurance protection, and focused subsidies for necessary inputs should all be part of these safety nets. Such safeguards ensure that aquaculture workers are not disproportionately burdened by unforeseen difficulties or economic swings, protecting their welfare and means of subsistence. Including Everyone and Giving Marginalized Communities Power An anthropocentric strategy for Indian aquaculture places a strong emphasis on promoting inclusion. While India is a diverse country, we strongly believe that every community resides in harmony, it is important to not overlook this fact directly. The government should take aggressive steps to remove obstacles that prevent marginalized groups, including women and tribal populations, from taking part in aquaculture activities. A welcoming atmosphere that promotes diversity and develops the industry requires customized training programmes, access to financing facilities, and providing fair access to resources. Resilience to climate change and environmental sustainability Aquaculture that is anthropocentric must have a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The government can put in place regulations that support ethical resource management, environmentally sound aquaculture methods, and conservation initiatives. The sector may reduce risks connected with climate change and guarantee long-term viability by investing in climate-resilient technologies and offering training on adaptation techniques. I would like to mention that the APY tool is being built to solve this very problem with a vision to integrate a lot more features to build a realtime farm monitoring system. Farm monitoring systems have been proven a lot efficient in western countries like the US to enhance productivity. Feasibility Study While the initiative for aquaculture expansion looks very promising to support rural development, the feasibility study is very important to understand the practicality of its implementation. “A feasibility study is crucial for the development of any framework as it provides a comprehensive assessment of the viability, practicality, and potential success of the proposed initiative.” Let us understand the parameters involved in this study in the context of Aquaculture expansion: Risk Assessment It identifies potential risks, challenges, and uncertainties associated with the framework. This allows for proactive risk mitigation strategies to be put in place. In terms of aquaculture expansion, the major risk is the maintenance and enforcement of quality standards. The rapid expansion can lead to subtle Resource Allocation A feasibility study helps in understanding the resources, including financial, human, and technological, that will be required for successful implementation. This ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. In rural areas, it may create tensions within the community based on the land/water usage by the aquaculture farmers (could potentially harm the natural ecosystem), which may upset other people of the community. Objective Decision-Making It provides an evidence-based foundation for decision-making. This prevents the pursuit of initiatives that may be impractical or unviable in the given context. In terms of Shrimp Aquaculture, many theories and statistics suggest that a rapid