Syllabus: GS2/Global Grouping; GS3/Environment
Context
- Recently, India and Norway reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in marine planning, Arctic research, and the Blue Economy at the Monaco Marine Conference (MCC).
Key Points
- Marine Spatial Planning (MSP): India aims to scale Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) across its coastline reinforcing its leadership in sustainable ocean management.
- MSP is a science-based framework for optimizing ocean resources, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring coastal livelihoods, under the Indo-Norwegian Integrated Ocean and Research Initiative.
- It has already yielded visible outcomes, particularly through pilot projects in Puducherry and Lakshadweep.
- India-Norway Marine Pact: Both nations emphasized the importance of joint research in polar sciences and ocean sustainability.
- Strengthening bilateral cooperation in marine planning, Arctic research, and ocean sustainability.
- Norway, with 70% of its exports originating from its maritime industry, is a recognized expert in the Ocean Economy.
- SAHAV Portal: It is a GIS-based decision support system, recognized as a Digital Public Good.
- It was introduced to mark World Ocean Day (i.e. 8th June).
India-Norway Relations
- About: India and Norway have maintained a cordial and friendly relationship since 1947, built on shared values like democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
- Political and Diplomatic Engagement:
- 2014: It strengthened cooperation in Earth Sciences, Culture, Defence, and Scientific Research.
- 2019: It led to the signing of the India-Norway Ocean Dialogue, reinforcing maritime collaboration.
- India-Nordic Summit (2022): It focused on blue economy, renewable energy, green hydrogen, and sustainable shipping.
- Trade and Investment:
- In March 2025, Norway’s exports to India increased by 48% year-on-year. Key Norwegian exports include non-ferrous metals (like raw nickel), chemical materials, and metalliferous ores.
- The recent signing of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) in March 2024 is a significant milestone, expected to boost trade and investment between India and Norway.
- Scientific and Environmental Cooperation:
- India and Norway collaborate on polar research, marine spatial planning, and climate action.
- India has undertaken three Arctic Missions to Norway (in 2007, 2008, and 2009). India’s Polar Research Station, “Himadri,” is located at Ny Alesund, Spitsbergen Island, Norway.
- Export Control Regimes: Norway has supported India’s membership in key export control regimes, including the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the Wassenaar Arrangement (WA), and the Australia Group (AG).
| What is the Blue Economy? – Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and environmental health. 1. India’s vision aligns with global efforts to balance economic development with marine ecosystem protection. – The Blue Economy is also reflected in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 14), which advocates for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development. – For India, with its extensive coastline of 11,098km spanning nine states and two union territories, and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 2.02 million sq.km, the Blue Economy holds significant potential. Key Policy Frameworks and Initiatives – National Blue Economy Policy Framework: It was outlined by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, focusing on marine fisheries, coastal tourism, and ocean-based industries. – Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): It aimed at boosting fisheries and aquaculture, contributing to India’s Blue Economy. |
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