The Ocean Services, Modelling, Applications, Resources, and Technology (O-SMART) Scheme plays a crucial role in the field of ocean research. This initiative received approval from the Union Cabinet in August 2018 and is operated by the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The primary focus of this scheme is to enhance ocean research and establish weather warning systems. The O-SMART Scheme tackles various aspects of ocean development, including services, technology, resources, observations, and science. In doing so, it builds a necessary scientific and technological foundation for implementing different aspects of the Blue Economy.
Objectives of the O-SMART Scheme
The Objectives of this Scheme include several crucial points. A major goal is to produce and update information on Marine Living Resources and their relationship with the physical environment in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Additionally, this scheme aims to periodically monitor levels of ocean water pollutants for coastal waters’ health assessment in India. It develops shoreline change maps to assess coastal erosion caused by natural and anthropogenic activities. Another important objective is the development of state-of-the-art ocean observation systems to acquire real-time data from seas around India. The Scheme also aims to generate and disseminate user-oriented ocean information, advisories, warnings, data, and data products for societal benefit.
Ocean Forecast and Reanalysis Systems
A significant part of the O-SMART Scheme is to develop high-resolution models for ocean forecast and reanalysis systems. These systems help to generate precise predictions about ocean behavior and analyses of historical ocean data. Moreover, the Scheme undertakes the development of algorithms for the validation of satellite data, essential for coastal research and monitoring changes in coastal areas.
Acquisition of Coastal Research Vessels
Coastal Research Vessels (CRVs) are a key component in monitoring coastal pollution, testing various underwater components, and demonstrating technology. The O-SMART Scheme addresses the acquisition of these vessels and supports their operation and maintenance.
Technological Development for Marine Bioresources
The O-SMART Scheme is dedicated to developing technologies to tap into marine bioresources and generate freshwater and ocean energy. It also focuses on creating underwater vehicles and technologies.
Addressing Ballast Water Treatment
Ballast Water Discharge by ships is known for introducing invasive species into oceans by taking water from one port and discharging it at the next. The establishment of a ballast water treatment facility is thus an important objective of this Scheme.
Exploration of Polymetallic Nodules and Gas Hydrates
The Scheme includes the exploration of Polymetallic Nodules (MPN) and investigations of gas hydrates from a water depth of 5500 m. These nodules, also known as manganese nodules, consist of concentric layers of iron and manganese hydroxides surrounding a core. They contain multiple metals of variable constitutions precipitated by hot fluids from upwelling hot magma from the deep interior of the oceanic crust. Mining for these nodules holds strategic importance for India due to their absence in terrestrial sources.
Claim Over Continental Shelf Beyond the EEZ
The Scheme supports India’s claim over the continental shelf extending beyond the EEZ using scientific data. This includes the topographic survey of the Indian EEZ.
