In a bold proclamation, Minister Jitendra Singh has positioned marine science and biotechnology as the twin engines propelling India’s economic ascent. Addressing policymakers and scientists, he painted a picture of a thriving blue economy that nurtures jobs, preserves ecosystems, and bolsters GDP.
India’s oceanic assets—rich in biodiversity and minerals—remain underexploited. Singh spotlighted breakthroughs like lab-grown pearls, oyster-derived cosmetics, and wave-energy tech. ‘Biotech will unlock $50 billion in value from our seas annually,’ he projected, citing data from the National Institute of Ocean Technology.
Government thrusts include the INR 4,000 crore Deep Sea Mission for nodule mining and biotech hubs in Chennai and Visakhapatnam. These will train 5 lakh youth in marine skills, from drone surveying to gene editing of algae for biofuels.
On the green front, Singh advocated for ‘biomimicry’—nature-inspired solutions like shark-skin antifouling paints to cut ship emissions. He warned of threats like ocean acidification but affirmed India’s Paris Agreement commitments through blue carbon credits.
Global tie-ups with Seychelles and Australia will accelerate progress, while startups receive seed funding via the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council. Economists forecast this sector could employ 20% more coastal workers by 2025.
Singh’s roadmap demands cross-ministry synergy and public-private partnerships. From Lakshadweep’s lagoons to the Andaman’s depths, India’s marine biotech saga promises equitable development. As he concluded, ‘Harnessing the ocean wisely today ensures prosperity for generations.’ This could redefine India’s growth story.