India Takes Chairmanship of Bay of Bengal Organisation

India has recently assumed the Chairmanship of the Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation (BOBP-IGO) from Bangladesh. This transition took place during the 13th Governing Council Meeting held in Malé, Maldives. The event was part of a high-level conference focused on mainstreaming ecosystem approaches to fisheries management in small-scale fisheries.

About BOBP-IGO

• The BOBP-IGO was established in 2003.
• This Regional Fisheries Advisory Body (RFAB) gives advice on fishing to countries around the Bay of Bengal.
• Its primary aim is to assist member countries in enhancing livelihood opportunities for small-scale fisherfolk in the Bay of Bengal region.
• Current member countries include Bangladesh, Maldives, and Sri Lanka.
• Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand participate as cooperating non-contracting parties.

Focus Areas for Regional Cooperation

Key areas identified by India for enhanced cooperation include marine resource management, training and capacity-building programmes, research and policy advocacy, and addressing Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. India aims to encourage collaboration among member nations to tackle regional challenges effectively.

Role of International Organisations

India seeks support from various international organisations including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC). These collaborations are expected to strengthen the region’s blue economy and promote sustainable economic development while protecting marine ecosystems.

Future Vision and Goals

India’s leadership in BOBP-IGO is seen as opportunity to advance the national goal of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’. This vision includes not only regional leadership but also encouraging economic development and poverty alleviation across member countries.

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2025

Category: Summits and Conferences