The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with The Habitats Trust and HCL Foundation for marine conservation at Coast Guard Headquarters, New Delhi. The agreement was signed by IG Anupam Rai, Deputy Director General (Operations & Coastal Security), Dr Nidhi Pundhir, Director, HCL Foundation and Mr Rushikesh Chavan, Head of, The Habitats Trust. This strategic partnership aims to implement critical conservation initiatives, including removal of Ghost Nets addressing the pressing issue of abandoned fishing gear that poses threats to marine life,Mapping and Classifying Ghost Gear Aggregation Areas which will enhance understanding of areas affected by ghost gear to prioritize cleanup efforts.
The MoU entails conducting surveys in ecologically sensitive regions to monitor and protect marine biodiversity and aims to involve coastal communities in conservation activities to foster stewardship of marine ecosystems.
IG Anupam Rai emphasized the importance of collaboration in safeguarding marine resources, stating, “This partnership is a pivotal step toward ensuring the health of our coastal ecosystems, which are vital to both biodiversity and the livelihoods of coastal communities.”
The ICG, Habitats Trust, and HCL Foundation are committed to work together while promoting sustainable practices that will benefit both the environment and local communities.
