Bhubaneswar: Odisha on Wednesday launched a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) to drive the blue economy while safeguarding marine ecosystems, marking a significant step towards scientific and sustainable management of coastal resources.
The initiative was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Lok Seva Bhavan between the State’s Department of Science & Technology and the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
The MSP aims to create a comprehensive framework for the optimal use of marine resources while ensuring the protection of biodiversity and ecological balance. It is expected to support key sectors such as fisheries, tourism, ports, and ocean-based energy, while minimising conflicts among stakeholders and reducing environmental impact.
Officials said Odisha has become the first state in the country to implement the initiative in the second phase of India’s Sustainable Ocean Planning programme, undertaken in collaboration with the Government of Norway. The programme was earlier implemented in Puducherry and Lakshadweep during its initial phase.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Majhi highlighted the importance of Odisha’s long coastline and rich marine biodiversity, noting that these resources play a crucial role in livelihoods and economic growth. He said the MSP would help manage increasing developmental pressures through a scientific and integrated approach, ensuring long-term sustainability.
The Chief Minister also linked the initiative to Odisha’s broader development vision, stating that strengthening coastal economies while protecting natural resources is essential to achieving the state’s goal of becoming a prosperous economy by 2036 and contributing to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
The MoU was signed by Additional Secretary Pooja Mishra on behalf of the State Government and NCCR Director Dr. R.S. Kankara. Senior officials from the State Government, the Ministry of Earth Sciences, and representatives from the Government of Norway were present at the event.
Experts noted that the MSP framework will enable data-driven decision-making, improve coordination across sectors, and ensure long-term conservation of marine ecosystems, while unlocking new economic opportunities for coastal communities.
