The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and the Government of Puducherry (GoPuducherry) signed a memorandum of understanding in New Delhi on 12 February 2026 to bolster the blue economy and coastal resilience. The agreement establishes a framework to apply scientific and technical expertise to local needs and to promote sustainable development along the coastline. The partnership aims to address coastal erosion and freshwater scarcity while fostering longer term economic opportunities linked to ocean resources.

The MoU identifies six strategic collaboration areas, starting with sustainable marine fisheries focused on deep sea fishing, seaweed cultivation and mapping of migratory routes and fishing grounds. It also covers offshore wind energy with feasibility studies and technical support to diversify the energy mix, and the deployment of seawater desalination technologies to address coastal water shortages. The pact commits to ocean climate advisory services and real time monitoring via a dedicated observation infrastructure, to permanent coastal management through science driven shoreline monitoring and erosion control, and to upgrading marine spatial planning from a pilot to an integrated model that incorporates renewables and resource mapping.

To ensure effective implementation, both parties will appoint nodal officers and form joint working groups to oversee project delivery and coordination. The MoU is set for an initial duration of five years and progress will be reviewed at least annually, providing governance mechanisms for phased execution and accountability. MoES will provide technical support across projects and aims to facilitate the operationalisation of advanced desalination and renewable energy systems while integrating observational data into decision making.

The signing was attended by senior mission and ministry officials and representatives of the Government of Puducherry, underlining institutional commitment. The collaboration is intended to leverage scientific capacity and maritime advantages to build climate resilient livelihoods, expand ocean services and create sustainable economic pathways for coastal communities.