Fishermen and Scientists Collaborate on Ocean Data

Summary of the News Article on INCOIS's Initiative for Fishermen and Ocean Data Collection

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), based in Hyderabad and functioning under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is embarking on an innovative initiative to enhance marine data collection by integrating fishermen's participation with scientific research. In this citizen-science project, researchers will equip fishermen's nets with small sensors that will gather real-time ocean condition data, facilitating the creation of a micro-observation system.

Key Developments:

• Direct Engagement with Fishermen: INCOIS aims to strengthen its connection with approximately 900,000 fishermen across India’s coastal regions. Currently, these fishermen receive daily Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories in their local languages.
• Use of Technology: INCOIS has developed a mobile application for fishermen to upload images of their catches, which will be combined with satellite data to improve fisheries advisory services.
• Satellite Communication Agreement: INCOIS is in the process of signing an agreement with the Ministry of Fisheries and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to create a robust communication system up to 1,500 km from the coast, overcoming limitations in mobile connectivity.
• GEMINI and NavIC Systems: INCOIS previously launched the GEMINI system in 2019 for navigation and information relayed via the GAGAN satellite system. The NavIC system, operated by ISRO, will also be integrated into fishing boats to enhance communication and data collection.
• Satellite Data Acquisition: To address the increasing demand for reliable ocean data, INCOIS has requested a dedicated satellite for more frequent ocean observation, aiming for data access intervals of three hours. The organization is optimistic about a new constellation of micro-satellites recently approved by the government.

Additional Ocean Research Initiatives:

• In collaboration with the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, a sea glider was launched for oceanographic studies near India’s Antarctic research station, Bharati. This glider has traveled approximately 5,000 km and is currently operational near the Kenyan coast.
• The sea glider's capabilities include monitoring parameters such as temperature, salinity, and geochemical processes, with plans for additional glider deployments in the Indian Ocean.

Technological Capabilities of the Gliders:

• The ocean gliders can operate up to 1,000 km from the coast, diving to depths of 1,000 to 2,000 meters and are remotely controlled from a command center.
• They are equipped with sensors to monitor various ocean parameters, delivering updates multiple times a day. The full data set is collected after a battery replacement period of nine months.

Future Directions:

• INCOIS intends to enhance its ocean data forecasting capabilities, providing better insights for the fishing community and broader marine research. It is actively seeking collaborations with other agencies and stakeholders to further strengthen its ocean observation initiatives.

Important Bullet Points:

• INCOIS to incorporate sensors into fishermen's nets for real-time ocean data collection.
• The initiative aims to engage 900,000 fishermen with improved fishery advisory services.
• An agreement is being prepared with ISRO to provide communication beyond mobile coverage.
• The GEMINI system aids navigation through the GAGAN satellite, while NavIC enhances boat communication.
• INCOIS seeks a dedicated satellite for timely ocean data access and improved forecasting.
• The sea glider project supports ocean research, with advancements in monitoring capabilities.
• Future collaborations and enhancements planned for ocean observation systems.