Scientists call for unified body for oceanography, fishing

Scientists, oceanographers and marine experts at the World Ocean Science Congress (WOSC) have urged the Union government to form a separate ministry to bring all agencies and institutions working in the field of ocean and fisheries research under one roof for a smooth implementation and management of all government policies related to the two sectors.

The four-day congress, which witnessed presentation of 450 technical papers in 13 sessions by 86 Indian institutions and 14 foreign institutions, evolved a set of recommendations that will be submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking at the valedictory function, KV Thomas, Member of Parliament, said the sea belonged to the traditional fishing community and the government should take initiatives to make available the latest sectoral technology to the fishing community, who are facing challenges like low-income and poor living standards.

The other major recommendation at the Congress has been to establish a procedure to identify the potential use of coastal mineral resources based on environmental impact assessment.