Odisha, Centre sign MoU for Marine Spatial Plan

• Odisha, Centre sign MoU for marine spatial plan
• Balances coastal growth with ecosystem protection
• Boosts blue economy with sustainable resource use

The Odisha government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Centre to implement a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP), marking a significant step toward balancing coastal economic growth with environmental sustainability.

The agreement was signed between the state’s Science and Technology Department and the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The initiative aims to introduce a scientific framework for managing marine and coastal resources, ensuring that economic activities do not compromise ecological integrity.

The MSP is designed to address increasing pressure on Odisha’s 574-km coastline, where sectors such as fisheries, tourism, ports, and offshore energy are expanding rapidly. By using data-driven zoning and planning tools, the framework will help reduce conflicts between competing sectors while promoting optimal utilization of marine resources.

A key objective of the initiative is to strengthen the state’s blue economy, which focuses on sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and ecosystem health. The plan will support coastal communities by promoting sustainable livelihoods while ensuring long-term conservation of marine biodiversity.

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The programme is part of India’s broader Sustainable Ocean Planning initiative, launched in collaboration with Norway in 2019. After initial implementation in Puducherry and Lakshadweep, Odisha has become the first state to roll out the second phase, benefiting from international expertise in marine mapping and ecosystem-based management.

The MSP will also incorporate climate resilience by addressing risks such as coastal erosion, marine pollution, and the impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. By integrating environmental safeguards with economic planning, the initiative aims to create a structured and sustainable approach to coastal governance.

From a strategic perspective, the move reflects a shift toward integrated ocean management, where development and conservation are aligned through scientific planning. It is expected to unlock investment opportunities in marine sectors while ensuring that growth remains environmentally sustainable.

Overall, the MoU signals a forward-looking approach to coastal development, positioning Odisha as a model for sustainable marine planning in India.