Strengthening Marine Biodiversity: India’s Strategic Stance at IWC-70

At the 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC-70) held in Hobart, Australia, India reiterated its steadfast commitment to the conservation of cetaceans—a group of marine mammals including whales, dolphins, and porpoises. As a nation with an extensive coastline and a significant Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), India’s participation underscores its proactive role in global marine biodiversity governance.

India’s intervention at the forum emphasized the necessity of shifting toward evidence-based conservation strategies. By advocating for scientific rigor in policy formulation, India aims to address the multifaceted threats facing marine mammals, such as habitat degradation, entanglement in fishing gear, and the impacts of climate change on oceanic ecosystems. Central to India’s position is the robust legal architecture provided by the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, which offers stringent safeguards for endangered marine species within Indian waters. This domestic framework serves as a model for integrating national legislative mandates with international conservation obligations.

The IWC-70 platform serves as a critical venue for India to align its national marine policies with global standards, fostering international collaboration to mitigate transboundary threats to migratory marine species. By championing sustainable practices, India not only protects its own marine heritage but also contributes to the broader global objective of maintaining ecological balance in the high seas. For policymakers, this engagement highlights the importance of balancing developmental aspirations with the imperative of environmental stewardship, ensuring that the blue economy remains resilient and biodiversity-rich.