Why in News
India must use ocean space for fisheries, ports, shipping, tourism, offshore energy and conservation without degrading ecosystems supporting coastal livelihoods. Marine Spatial Planning makes competing claims visible.
Static Foundation
Blue economy combines economic use with ecosystem health. Marine Spatial Planning allocates marine activities across space and time. Fisheries depend on stocks and habitats; mangroves, reefs, salt marshes and seagrasses provide habitat and coastal protection.
Prelims Focus
Blue economy does not mean maximising extraction. Marine Spatial Planning is not the same as declaring the whole coast protected. Small-scale fishers need meaningful participation.
Mains Perspective
Integrate scientific mapping with fisher knowledge, cumulative-impact assessment and transparent conflict resolution. Projects need climate-risk analysis, benefit sharing and secure access rights.
Practice
MCQ: MSP can identify use conflicts; blue economy does NOT ignore sustainability; mangroves provide protection and habitat. Correct: 1 and 3.
Mains: Discuss MSP for ecological and livelihood security.