By Vaishnavi, SDG Reporter, Class 9
As an SDG Reporter, I have always been fascinated by the underwater world. While reading about Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, I realized how crucial it is for us to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. The NITI Aayog report explains the efforts India is making to achieve this goal, and I am proud to share the details with you.
India’s Key Initiatives for SDG 14
1. Neel Kranti Mission (Blue Revolution):
This mission focuses on increasing fish production in a sustainable way. It supports fishermen and aims to make India a leader in fish production without harming the environment.
2. National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA):
This plan ensures that our rivers, lakes, and wetlands are clean and healthy. It also helps protect the plants and animals that live in these ecosystems.
3. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY):
PMMSY focuses on developing the fishing industry. It helps fishermen with better boats, modern technology, and proper storage for fish, ensuring they earn more while protecting marine life.
4. Sagarmala Project:
This project is about improving our ports and creating jobs for coastal communities. What I found interesting is that it focuses on reducing waste and pollution while developing ports.
5. Interlinking of Rivers:
This project connects rivers to ensure there is enough water for everyone. It also helps maintain aquatic ecosystems, which reduces pressure on the seas.
6. National Coastal Mission:
This mission works to protect coastal areas from the effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and storms. It also helps fishermen and coastal families adapt to these changes.
7. O-STORMS (Ocean Services, Technology, Observation, Resources, Modelling, and Science):
This program uses science and technology to study the ocean. It helps predict storms and manage resources like fish and minerals.
8. Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI):
MISHTI focuses on saving mangroves, which are like guardians of our coasts. Mangroves prevent erosion and are home to many species. They also help families living near coasts earn a better income.
My Observations
When I read about these initiatives, I felt hopeful for the future. However, I noticed a few things:
1. The Importance of Mangroves:
During my research, I found that mangroves are often cut down for land development. MISHTI is a wonderful program, but we must make sure mangrove conservation becomes a priority everywhere.
2. Pollution in Oceans:
While the Sagarmala Project focuses on reducing pollution, I feel that more awareness campaigns are needed. People should know that plastic waste harms sea creatures like turtles and dolphins.
3. Community Involvement:
Many coastal families depend on the sea for their livelihood. Programs like PMMSY and the National Coastal Mission are great, but we should involve these families more in decision-making so they feel empowered.
4. Overfishing:
I also read that overfishing is a big problem. The Neel Kranti Mission is doing good work, but I think we need stricter rules to protect fish species from extinction.
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