Union Minister of Earth Sciences (Independent Charge) Dr. Jitendra Singh has departed for France to lead a high-level Indian delegation at the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), being held from June 8 to 13 in the coastal city of Nice. The conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, is a major global gathering dedicated to the sustainable governance of the oceans.
A Global Platform for Ocean Action
UNOC3 brings together world leaders, scientists, policymakers, and civil society to address critical issues affecting the health of the oceans. Discussions will center around restoring marine ecosystems, reducing marine pollution, fostering ocean-based scientific cooperation, and mobilizing resources to support the Sustainable Development Goal 14 — the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.
Dr. Jitendra Singh’s participation highlights India’s growing leadership in global marine conservation. His visit to France also reinforces Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong commitment to ocean sustainability, promoting the blue economy, and advancing international cooperation.
Key Engagements and Bilateral Meetings
Over the next few days, Dr. Singh will take part in high-level policy dialogues, deliver India’s national statement at the UNOC plenary, and hold a series of bilateral meetings with ministers and delegates from countries including France, Germany, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Chile. These meetings aim to strengthen collaboration on marine pollution, blue economy financing, and scientific innovation in oceanography.
A major highlight of his visit will be the India-Norway side event on Marine Spatial Planning, to be held on June 8 aboard the Norwegian research vessel S/S Statsraad Lehmkuhl at Monaco Harbour. The event will showcase the outcomes of India-Norway cooperation on sustainable marine governance and will be co-hosted with Norway’s Minister of International Development, H.E. Åsmund Grøver Aukrust. Crown Prince Haakon of Norway is scheduled to attend as the Guest of Honour.
India’s Road to UNOC3
In the run-up to UNOC3, India actively engaged in global dialogues on marine issues. The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) organized two Blue Talks in partnership with the Embassies of France and Costa Rica in New Delhi. These forums brought together stakeholders from various sectors to exchange ideas and propose action plans on marine conservation and governance.
India has also secured speaking slots in key thematic panels at the conference, including those on marine pollution, scientific cooperation, and coastal resilience. Dr. Jitendra Singh will highlight India’s advances in marine research, particularly in deep-sea exploration, ocean observation systems, and disaster management in coastal regions.
India’s Commitment to Ocean Sustainability
India’s involvement in UNOC3 reflects a broader vision for an inclusive and sustainable blue economy, rooted in science, innovation, and international cooperation. From implementing the Deep Ocean Mission to building resilient coastal infrastructure, India continues to take concrete steps toward protecting its vast maritime ecosystem and supporting sustainable development.
India’s proactive participation in global ocean policy forums demonstrates its strategic interest in the Indo-Pacific, a region vital to global trade and environmental health. Dr. Singh’s presence in France reinforces India’s role as a constructive partner in shaping the future of global marine governance.
Looking Ahead
As the UNOC3 proceedings unfold, India’s delegation will continue to advocate for practical, scalable solutions that benefit both people and the planet. With the oceans at the heart of climate regulation, biodiversity, and food security, India’s contributions at the conference will emphasize shared responsibility and collective action for a healthier oceanic future.
