Achieving SDG 14 in India: Assessing Progress Towards Sustainable Oceans

Supported by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Government of India

India’s Progress on SDG 14

India’s marine and coastal ecosystems serve as the backbone for national biodiversity, regional livelihoods, and broader economic development. As a nation with a vast coastline, the sustainable management of these resources is not merely an environmental concern but a socio-economic necessity. Supported by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Government of India, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) is undertaking a specialized project titled "Achieving SDG 14 in India: Assessing Progress Towards Sustainable Oceans." This initiative provides a critical lens through which India can evaluate its trajectory toward Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), ensuring that the blue economy remains resilient and productive for future generations.

Aims and Primary Objectives

The core ambition of this project is to conduct a rigorous assessment of India’s progress using both national and global indicators. A primary objective is to pinpoint specific policy gaps and governance challenges that hinder the realization of sustainable ocean outcomes. By analyzing the existing institutional frameworks that guide marine resource management, the project seeks to understand the effectiveness of current coastal governance. Furthermore, the initiative aims to map key stakeholders and identify priority coastal regions, creating a blueprint for targeted interventions that address the unique needs of different maritime zones.

Conclusion and Expected Results

The successful completion of this project will yield a definitive evidence base regarding India’s standing on SDG 14, offering a detailed performance review across various states. These findings will be translated into high-impact knowledge products, including policy briefs and white papers designed to steer national discourse. Ultimately, the results will provide strategic recommendations to strengthen India’s maritime policies, offering actionable solutions for combating marine degradation. By fostering a more informed governance model, the project ensures that India is better equipped to protect its "Life Below Water" while promoting a sustainable and thriving marine economy.