Odisha’s Chief Secretary, Anu Garg, IAS, today officially inaugurated the Global Summit on Blue Economy 2026 today at the Convention Centre, Lok Seva Bhawan.
The Chief Secy presented the state’s vision under Viksit Odisha @2036, highlighting the potential of ocean-based sectors to drive economic growth.
Garg emphasised Odisha’s unique advantages—its economy, demography, geography, and ecosystem—along with its 575 km coastline. She outlined the ambition for Odisha to contribute 5% to the country’s GDP by 2047, with significant contributions expected from fisheries, maritime infrastructure, coastal tourism, and marine biotechnology through OMBRIC. She concluded by reaffirming the vision of “Think India, Think Odisha,” positioning the state as an emerging hub for Blue Economy growth and innovation.
Dr M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, provided a national perspective under Viksit Bharat @2047. He highlighted the vast potential of the oceans, noting that over 95% of the deep ocean remains unexplored globally. He discussed the opportunities in sectors such as offshore energy and marine biotechnology, as well as the challenges posed by climate change, coastal erosion, and marine pollution. He stressed the need for stronger research and innovation to sustainably harness ocean resources.
His Excellency Karlito Nunes, the Ambassador of Timor-Leste to India, shared insights on his country’s focus on strengthening the marine and coastal sectors. He underscored the importance of international cooperation and partnerships in advancing Blue Economy initiatives.
NBS Rajput, IAS, Principal Secretary of the Commerce & Transport Department, Government of Odisha, highlighted the strategic importance of Odisha’s coastline and maritime resources. He emphasised the necessity for stronger collaboration, improved infrastructure, innovation, and sustainable practices to enhance key sectors such as fisheries and aquaculture, while supporting coastal livelihoods.
The two-day summit is being organised by the Bhubaneswar City Knowledge Innovation Cluster (BCKIC) Foundation, an initiative of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, under the guidance of PM-STIAC, in collaboration with the Commerce & Transport Department, Government of Odisha. Dr Mrutyunjay Suar, Chairman of the BCKIC Foundation, opened the inaugural plenary with a welcome address, emphasising the importance of collaboration and innovation in advancing India’s Blue Economy.
The inauguration witnessed participation from over 500 attendees, including policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, startups, and students. During this session, the Blue Economy Technology Compendium was released, along with an academic Abstract Book, and the Startup Showcasing Pavilion was inaugurated, showcasing key innovations and technological advancements from 26 startups across the coastal region of Odisha, all contributing to sustainable ocean-based development.
Over the two-day program, discussions will encompass critical sectors including fisheries and mariculture, marine biodiversity, climate resilience, maritime security, marine pollution, offshore energy, deep-sea mining, marine biotechnology, and AI-enabled ocean intelligence. Participation from students, researchers, and faculty is another key component of the event, with abstracts published in the Conference Abstract Souvenir. Selected research contributions will have opportunities for publication and recognition in association with Taylor & Francis.
The summit aligns with India’s vision for Maritime India Vision 2030 and Viksit Bharat @2047, while also highlighting Odisha’s growing role in advancing sustainable ocean-based development. With its long coastline and strategic maritime position, Odisha is increasingly emerging as a hub for innovation and sustainable ocean-based industries.
