Abstract

India has a 7516 km long coastline, touching 13 states and union territories, and has a strategic position in the Indian Ocean due to its peninsular shape and location. These conditions bestow immense potential for harnessing the blue economy and making India an important part of international sustainable ocean governance. This blog looks into India’s maritime laws and India’s blue economy, where it stands along with challenges and opportunities the blue economy brings up to be tackled, and what plans India is moving forward with within this sector. 

Introduction 

What is Maritime Law?

Maritime law, or admiralty law, is the legal backbone of the Blue Economy and coastal issues of any country. These laws govern activities in navigable waters, including fishing, shipping, offshore energy projects, and marine conservation and research. They also include domestic legislation and international conventions to ensure the proper functioning of trade and national security. 

Maritime law in India is guided by laws like The Indian Ports Act (1908), Maritime Zones of India Act (1981), Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ), etc, addressing disputes and boosting its global maritime position and blue economy.

What is the Blue Economy?

Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources and the preservation of marine ecosystems. This sector covers fisheries, tourism, renewable energy, biotechnology, and transport. When the blue economy is integrated properly, it can contribute to goals like food security and climate resilience. India’s key initiatives include alignment with global sustainable goals, port modernization, and the Sagarmala Project.

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