THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 16, 2026

 “The Marine Spatial Plan will set a new benchmark in integrated coastal and marine planning while boosting the blue economy and safeguarding marine ecology,” said Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, as Odisha signed a landmark MoU to launch the Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) initiative on Thursday.

In a significant step towards sustainable ocean governance, the Odisha Government signed the agreement at Lok Seva Bhavan between the State’s Department of Science & Technology and the National Centre for Coastal Research under the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences. The MoU was signed by Additional Secretary Pooja Mishra and NCCR Director Dr. R.S. Kankara in the presence of the Chief Minister.

The MSP, a collaborative initiative between the Governments of India and Norway, aims to promote sustainable ocean planning while balancing economic growth and environmental protection. Having already been implemented in Puducherry and Lakshadweep in its first phase, Odisha becomes the first state to roll out the programme in its second phase.

Highlighting the importance of the initiative, the Chief Minister noted that Odisha’s vast coastal and marine ecosystems are rich in biodiversity and vital for livelihoods and economic progress. However, rising developmental pressures and competing sectoral demands necessitate a scientific and integrated approach to marine resource management. The MSP will address the needs of key sectors such as fisheries, tourism, ports, and ocean energy, while ensuring ecological balance.

Majhi also pointed to the earlier launch of the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research and Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC) as a complementary step to strengthen marine conservation and economic development through biotechnology.

Reaffirming the State’s long-term vision, he emphasized that achieving a prosperous Odisha by 2036 and contributing to a developed India by 2047 will require a fine balance between coastal economic growth and environmental sustainability. He expressed gratitude to the Government of Norway for its continued support and acknowledged the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in advancing Odisha’s development agenda.

Science & Technology Minister Krushna Chandra Patra described the NCCR as a premier institution driving marine research and innovative economic models for conservation and resource utilization, assuring full departmental support for the MSP’s success.

Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg termed the initiative crucial for achieving the State’s developmental milestones, while M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, underlined MSP’s role in addressing climate challenges alongside economic growth under India’s Vision 2047.

Echoing global cooperation, Arvin Gadgil, Deputy Ambassador of the Royal Norwegian Embassy, highlighted Odisha’s rich maritime legacy and assured Norway’s continued technological and strategic support for sustainable marine resource management.

The programme began with a welcome address and presentation by Chitra Arumugam, outlining the roadmap for MSP implementation. The event witnessed participation from senior officials of the State Government, the Ministry of Earth Sciences, representatives from Norway, and other key stakeholders.