Ocean a living ecosystem to be protected: Vice President

TNN

Panaji: The ocean is not just a source but a living ecosystem to respect and protect aquatic life, said Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Saturday, on his visit to CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography. “ India’s oceans are not boundaries that separate the country from the world, but a bridge to connect to global trade, energy security, economic prosperity and strategic strength,” Radhakrishnan said.

He said that, for centuries, the Indian Ocean has shaped Indian civilization with ancient Indian traders, scholars and navigators building cultural and economic ties across the seas.

Speaking about growing concerns of climate change, rising sea levels, marine pollution, biodiversity loss and microplastics, Radhakrishnan said, “ The coastal communities across the world are becoming vulnerable. Any infrastructural or commercial development should not come at the cost of nature,” Radhakrishnan said.

He said that oceanography is not just restricted to scientific exploration, but has also become a medium to protect the future and build a sustainable, secure and prosperous world. “Scientific progress in studying oceans must always be guided with compassion, sustainability and responsibility,” said Radhakrishnan.

He said programmes such as Deep Ocean mission, blue economy initiatives, green hydrogen mission and renewable energy partnerships reflect India as a nation which thinks boldly about the future.

“ I urge the students and young researchers to dream fearlessly and work tirelessly. True excellence often emerges from deep personal interest and dedication,” Radhakrishnan said.