Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad, has been honored with the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2025 for its remarkable contributions to disaster management in India.

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About Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar

• Annual Award announced on January 23rd (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary).
•  Recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions in disaster management.
• Aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities in India.
• INCOIS received this award for its excellence in ocean disaster monitoring and early warning systems.

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What is INCOIS?

• Full Name: Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services
• Established: 1999
• Governing Body: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
• Affiliation: Unit of Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO)
• Global Recognition: Permanent member of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).

INCOIS is a premier institution responsible for providing ocean-related advisory services and disaster warnings in India.

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Key Functions of INCOIS

Ocean Data & Information Services

Monitors oceanic changes and provides real-time information to various stakeholders, including:

• Fishermen 
• Coastal communities 
• Shipping industries 
• Defense & research institutions 

Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC)

Issues timely warnings for:

• Tsunamis 
• Storm surges 
• High waves & swells 
  Plays a crucial role in reducing loss of life and property in coastal regions.

Marine Weather Forecasting

Provides weather alerts related to:

• Cyclones 
• Rough seas 
• Ocean currents 

Ocean State Forecasting

Predicts sea conditions for:

• Navigation & shipping safety 
• Fishing zones optimization 
• Offshore industries development 

Support for Blue Economy Initiatives

Aids sustainable development of ocean resources by:

• Assisting coastal tourism 
• Improving maritime security 
• Enhancing fisheries & marine conservation 

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Why is INCOIS Important?

• Disaster Preparedness – Protects coastal communities from natural calamities.
• Sustainable Ocean Use – Supports blue economy growth while maintaining ecological balance.
• Global Collaboration – Contributes to international ocean monitoring programs under UNESCO.
• Technological Advancement – Uses satellite data, AI, and high-tech ocean sensors for precise forecasting.

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Future Prospects

• Advancing AI-driven ocean modeling for better predictions.
• Expanding tsunami monitoring networks for greater accuracy.
• Strengthening India's role in global climate and ocean research.

INCOIS continues to be India’s frontline defense against ocean disasters while ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources. 

Keeling Curve: Tracking the Rise of Atmospheric CO₂

 In 2024, atmospheric CO₂ levels reached a record high, driven by wildfires and human activities, as reported by the Keeling Curve. This alarming rise underscores the accelerating impact of climate change on our planet.

What is the Keeling Curve?

• The Keeling Curve is a graph that tracks the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Earth's atmosphere over time, measured in parts per million (ppm).
• It is one of the most critical indicators of long-term climate change and global warming trends.

Key Facts About the Keeling Curve

When & Where Did It Begin?

• Continuous CO₂ measurements began in 1958 at the Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii.
• It remains the longest-running and most reliable dataset on atmospheric CO₂ levels.

Who Developed It?

✔ Charles David Keeling, an American scientist, pioneered the first accurate measurements of atmospheric CO₂.
✔ His work proved the direct link between human activities and rising CO₂ levels.

Why is the Keeling Curve Significant?

Climate Change Indicator

• The steady rise in CO₂ levels shown in the Keeling Curve is strong evidence of global warming.
• It reflects the impact of burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial activities.

Record CO₂ Levels in 2024

• In 2024, CO₂ levels surpassed previous records, driven by:
• Increased fossil fuel emissions from industries and transportation.
• Wildfires, which released large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere.
• Deforestation, reducing the Earth's natural ability to absorb CO₂.

Global Impact of Rising CO₂

Rising CO₂ contributes to:
✔ Extreme weather (heatwaves, storms, droughts).
✔ Rising sea levels due to polar ice melt.
✔ Ocean acidification, harming marine life.

The Need for Urgent Action

To stabilize CO₂ levels, global efforts must focus on:
✔ Shifting to renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro).
✔ Reducing fossil fuel dependency and promoting energy efficiency.
✔ Expanding forest cover to enhance CO₂ absorption.

With continued monitoring via the Keeling Curve, scientists can track climate trends and advocate for stronger environmental policies.