Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the issue of human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment at the 58th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council (24 Feb - 4 Apr 2025) delivered by Mr. Kshitij Tyagi, Counsellor, Geneva, 14 March 2025 

Mr. Vice President,

1. We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report and note its recommendations. As a nation with a vast coastline and strong maritime heritage, India has implemented comprehensive measures to protect marine ecosystems while supporting coastal communities and their livelihoods.
2. Initiatives such as the National Coastal Mission Scheme and Deep Ocean Mission integrate climate resilience, conservation, and economic sustainability with research on deep-sea ecosystems. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana addresses inland fisheries and aquaculture while ensuring socio-economic welfare for fishers, fish farmers, and other stakeholders across the sector.
3. India's approach balances ecological preservation with sustainable development through scientific research, community involvement, and international collaboration, supported by robust legal frameworks protecting environment, wildlife, and biodiversity.
4. We have integrated advanced technologies—satellite imagery, remote sensing, and autonomous underwater vehicles like C-bot—to monitor ocean conditions, including water quality and coral health. These systems help protect marine ecosystems, detect illegal fishing, and enhance climate resilience through early warning mechanisms.
5. We emphasize the need for equitable access to resources, technology transfer, and financial support for developing countries, SIDS, and LDCs to meet marine conservation commitments. Could the Special Rapporteur share specific mechanisms through which international cooperation might facilitate this?

Thank you.