Marine Resources in India: An Overview
India is a country with a vast coastline, making it rich in marine resources. The country has access to two major water bodies, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, which provide a diverse range of marine resources, including fish, seaweed, and minerals, among others. The marine resources in India play a crucial role in the country’s economy, providing livelihoods for millions of people and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.
Fisheries Resources in India
India is one of the largest producers of fish in the world, with the country’s marine fisheries contributing around 40% of the country’s total fish production. The marine fisheries in India provide livelihoods for over 4 million people and support several industries, including the fishing industry, seafood processing, and exports. The country’s marine fisheries have also been instrumental in promoting aquaculture practices, including the farming of shrimp and other marine species.
Mineral Resources in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone
India’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extends up to 200 nautical miles from its coastline, covering an area of around 2.02 million square kilometers. The EEZ is home to significant deposits of minerals, including oil and gas, manganese nodules, and polymetallic nodules, among others. The country has been actively exploring the resources in its EEZ, with several projects underway to tap into the country’s mineral resources.
Seaweed Resources in India
India is also known for its rich seaweed resources, with around 600 species of seaweed found in the country’s waters. Seaweed is used in several industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The country’s seaweed industry has been growing steadily, with several initiatives underway to promote sustainable seaweed farming practices.
Challenges in Managing India’s Marine Resources
India’s marine resources face several challenges, including overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution. The country’s marine ecosystems have been under pressure from several anthropogenic activities, including fishing practices that are not sustainable, and industrial pollution, among others. The country’s marine biodiversity is also under threat from climate change, which is leading to rising sea levels and ocean acidification.
Conclusion
India’s marine resources are essential for the country’s economy and the well-being of its people. The country has a diverse range of marine resources, including fish, minerals, and seaweed, among others. However, the protection and sustainable use of these resources pose several challenges, including overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution. To ensure the sustainable use of India’s marine resources, the country needs to adopt better conservation practices, including the regulation of fishing practices, the protection of marine habitats, and the promotion of sustainable tourism practices.