Integrating ocean science and biotechnology is key to enhancing India’s economy, environment, and job market, according to Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences. Singh emphasized this during a visit to the Atal Centre for Ocean Science and Technology for Islands (ACOSTI) to introduce and assess marine technology initiatives aimed at bolstering the Blue Economy and livelihoods in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
India’s economic growth will increasingly rely on untapped marine resources as it progresses towards becoming a leading global economy, the Minister highlighted. He underscored the government’s emphasis on the Blue Economy, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of holistic development that includes island territories and coastal regions, not just the mainland.
Singh pointed out that India’s focus on marine bio-resources under its dedicated biotechnology policy, BioE3, can offer sustainable alternatives to plastic, novel medicinal compounds, and valuable bio-products. These efforts are expected to create jobs, safeguard the environment, and bolster the bioeconomy simultaneously.
The Minister also highlighted upcoming sectors like non-animal food products, marine-based nutrition alternatives, waste-to-wealth technologies, and export-oriented marine goods, citing a growing global market, especially in Europe. He stressed the need to empower Self-Help Groups and enhance women’s involvement to boost household incomes in line with the “Vocal for Local” and “Local for Global” vision.
Singh expressed optimism that with collaborative efforts involving institutions like CSIR and biotechnology research centers, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands could become a significant hub for India’s Blue Economy initiatives. He reiterated the government’s dedication to engaging with the region continuously, foreseeing long-term benefits in terms of science, environment, and socio-economics for the islands.
