Advancing multi-hazard preparedness and fostering international cooperation to protect coastal communities.

India has solidified its position as a global leader in disaster warning systems, expanding its expertise to serve nations worldwide. At the 20th anniversary commemoration of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami held at INCOIS (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services), Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s unparalleled progress in ocean research, disaster preparedness, and global collaboration.

Reflecting on the tragic 2004 tsunami that claimed over 230,000 lives globally, including 10,749 in India, Dr. Singh emphasized the transformative impact it had on India’s disaster management infrastructure. “The tragedy served as a catalyst for establishing institutions like INCOIS, which now stands as a testament to India’s commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods,” he remarked.

The Minister attributed the rapid strides of INCOIS to the unwavering support and priority given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “After 2014, with PM Modi’s visionary initiatives such as the ‘Deep Sea Mission,’ INCOIS emerged as the world’s most state-of-the-art institute of its kind,” Dr. Singh stated.

Revolutionizing Disaster Warning Systems
India’s Tsunami Early Warning System, internationally acclaimed for its precision and reliability, has become a cornerstone of the nation’s disaster preparedness. Dr. Singh highlighted ongoing collaborations with UNESCO and the Tsunami Ready Initiative, which has already recognized 24 Indian communities for their resilience. These efforts underscore a community-centric approach to disaster management.

The Minister also emphasized the importance of integrating tsunami warnings with other ocean-related hazards, such as storm surges and high waves, into a multi-hazard early warning system.

“This forward-looking approach will ensure that we continue to safeguard lives and livelihoods against a wide spectrum of potential disasters,” he added.

Ocean Exploration and ‘Viksit Bharat’
Dr. Singh underscored the significance of ocean exploration in India’s journey toward achieving the vision of “Viksit Bharat.” With a 7,500-kilometer coastline rich in marine resources, he advocated for their sustainable exploration and conservation. “Our deep-sea mission and initiatives like BioE3 [Biotechnology for Environment, Employment, and Economy] are creating an ecosystem that will not only enhance biodiversity but also contribute to national prosperity,” he said.

Looking to the future, the Minister revealed plans for historic advancements in space and marine exploration. “We are planning to deploy an Indian in the deep sea and another in space, possibly by 2026, marking a historic milestone,” he announced.

Global Collaboration and Capacity Building
India’s proactive role in fostering international cooperation was also highlighted. INCOIS hosts a UNESCO Category 2 Training Centre, serving as a hub for capacity building and knowledge sharing on ocean-based disaster management. Through its involvement in the Ocean Decade Tsunami Programme, India aims to help achieve 100% tsunami-ready communities globally by 2030.

“Through initiatives like these, we are not only strengthening global partnerships but also paving the way for resilient coastal communities worldwide,” Dr. Singh remarked.

Charting the Path Forward
The Minister celebrated the synergy between policy and science, attributing advancements in oceanography to the government’s proactive support. He noted that INCOIS plays a crucial role in realizing India’s Vision 2047, aiming to explore untapped resources and ensure disaster readiness. “By exploring untapped resources and ensuring disaster readiness, INCOIS is a vital contributor to building a self-reliant and resilient India,” 

The event, attended by Dr. M. Ravi Chandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, alongside eminent scientists and policymakers, provided a platform to reflect on two decades of achievements and chart a sustainable path forward for disaster preparedness and oceanic exploration.

Source : Press Information Bureau, GOI