
The esteemed Minister of Earth Sciences, Shri Kiren Rijiju, inaugurated the commencement of the Marine Fish Rearing Facility at the Atal Centre for Ocean Sciences and Technology for Islands (ACOSTI-NIOT) during an event at the ACOSTI-NIOT complex in Dollygunj. The ceremony, attended by dignitaries including Admiral DK Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), the Lieutenant Governor of A&N Islands, and Vice Chairman of the Islands Development Agency, marked a significant milestone in the development of the region.
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In his address, the Minister emphasized the strategic importance of the islands and underscored the need for their comprehensive development. Highlighting the substantial investment plans exceeding Rs 95,000 crore in island infrastructure, the Lieutenant Governor expressed optimism about the rapid transformation underway.
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The Minister stressed the pivotal role of scientific and technological advancements in driving economic prosperity, citing the initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) towards leveraging ocean resources for societal benefit. He commended the contributions of institutions like the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) in aligning with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and outlined the significant projects undertaken, including the deep ocean mission.
Emphasizing India’s achievements in space and ocean exploration, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting science and technology endeavors in the islands. He highlighted the concept of the blue economy, advocating for sustainable utilization of ocean resources for economic growth and ecosystem health.
Acknowledging the strides made in cyclone tracking and disaster management through technological interventions, the Minister underscored the role of initiatives like the recently launched INSAT-3DS satellite by ISRO in enhancing safety and security measures. He expressed eagerness to witness the progress of the marine fish rearing facility, symbolizing the government’s commitment to the region’s development.
Key Points:
- Minister of Earth Sciences, Shri Kiren Rijiju, inaugurates Marine Fish Rearing Facility at ACOSTI-NIOT in Dollygunj.
- Event attended by dignitaries including Admiral DK Joshi and Lieutenant Governor of A&N Islands.
- Emphasis on strategic importance of islands and rapid transformation with over Rs 95,000 crore investment in infrastructure.
- Minister highlights role of science and technology in economic prosperity, citing initiatives like deep ocean mission.
- India’s achievements in space and ocean exploration acknowledged, with commitment to supporting island development.
- Importance of blue economy and sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth and ecosystem health.
- Technological advancements aiding in cyclone tracking and disaster management, enhancing safety measures.
- Government’s commitment to island development reiterated, calling for collaboration from fisheries-related departments and stakeholders.
The Minister praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the clear vision of the Lieutenant Governor in driving the transformation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He called upon fisheries-related departments and stakeholders to collaborate in supporting these developmental endeavors.