India's Role in Ocean Governance
India has a longstanding history of advocating for the ocean as a shared resource. During the UNCLOS negotiations, India aligned with smaller nations to support the principle that the seabed beyond national jurisdiction should be the "common heritage of mankind." This echoes Jawaharlal Nehru's vision of the ocean's centrality to India's security and prosperity.
Contemporary Challenges
Today, the ocean faces new pressures from climate change, such as heating, acidification, sea level rise, and illegal fishing, making the Indian Ocean particularly vulnerable. India has an opportunity to lead the region in addressing these issues.
India's Blue Ocean Strategy
- Stewardship of the Commons:
- India should maintain the Indian Ocean as a shared space, emphasizing ecosystem restoration and sustainable fisheries to promote cooperative management.
- Resilience:
- Focus on adaptation and preparedness through a Regional Resilience and Ocean Innovation hub that enhances ocean observation, warning systems, and technology transfer.
- Inclusive Growth:
- Promote economic development through green shipping, renewable energy, and marine biotechnology, requiring sustained investment and regional coordination.
Financial Developments
Recent forums like the Blue Economy and Finance Forum and COP30 have shown increasing financial commitments to ocean initiatives, with significant pledges from governments, development banks, and private investors.
Security and Sustainability
India should shift its focus from traditional maritime security to security through sustainability, addressing threats like IUU fishing and climate-induced disruptions. The "SAGAR" doctrine promotes peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Global Cooperation and Leadership
India's cooperative approach in the Indian Ocean, as highlighted by external affairs, seeks shared prosperity and stability. The nation can leverage its chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Rim Association and ratification of the BBNJ Agreement to pioneer global solutions.
Conclusion
India's leadership in ocean governance is crucial in balancing prosperity with sustainability. With a focus on cooperation over conflict, India can lead the Indian Ocean region to become a model for a new blue economy that aligns vision, finance, and enduring partnerships.
