Celebrating oceanography grandeur: Eighth OSICON 23 kicks off in Hyderabad with fanfare

Hyderabad: Eighth National Conference of the Ocean Society of India (OSICON 23) kicked off at the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad on Wednesday.

Taking place against the backdrop of INCOIS's 25th anniversary, the event brings together a diverse community of scientists, engineers, technologists, and enthusiasts to explore the latest advancements in ocean science and technology.

A Gathering of Ocean Minds

OSICON 23 stands as a testament to the ever-growing interest and concern for our planet's oceans. The conference's focal theme, "Operational Oceanography - Science to Services," underscores its dedication to bridging the gap between scientific exploration and practical applications. It's a platform where ideas, knowledge, and innovation converge to serve a noble purpose: understanding and preserving our oceans.

Diverse Range of Sessions

The conference offers a rich tapestry of sessions, presentations, and workshops covering an extensive spectrum of ocean-related topics. From Ocean Information and Advisory Services to Ocean Observations, Climate Change, Ocean Modelling, Coastal Processes, Biogeochemistry, Ocean Engineering, and much more, OSICON 23 encapsulates the breadth and depth of ocean science.

Special Sessions and Collaborations

In a true spirit of collaboration, OSICON 23 also plays host to two special sessions by the Indian Meteorological Society and Federation of Indian Geosciences Associations. These collaborations emphasize the interdisciplinary nature of ocean science and its interconnectedness with meteorology and geosciences.

UN Ocean Decade Collaborative Centre for the Indian Ocean Region

A significant highlight of the conference was the launch of the UN Ocean Decade Collaborative Centre for the Indian Ocean Region. This initiative demonstrates the global importance and recognition of the work being done in the Indian Ocean, signifying a united effort to understand and protect this vital part of our planet.

A Vision for the Future

In his inaugural address, Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, laid out a clear vision - translating science into services for society. He encouraged young researchers to develop new technologies that harness the immense resources of the ocean, recognizing that we are presented with both opportunities and challenges.

Honoring Excellence

The Dr. Srinivasan Endowment Award was presented during the inaugural session, recognizing outstanding contributions to ocean science. This gesture serves as a reminder of the dedication and talent within the community.

Launch of New Products/Services

Further enhancing the practicality of the conference, the launch of new coastal monitoring equipment and predictive systems was announced. These innovations promise to bolster our ability to monitor and manage coastal waters effectively.

Celebrating 25 Years of INCOIS

As INCOIS commemorates its silver jubilee year, OSICON 23 takes center stage amidst grand celebrations. Beyond the conference, numerous events, including student visits to research vessels, online lecture series, and competitions for school children, are planned throughout the year to engage and educate the public about the wonders of oceanography.

A Commitment to Ocean Science

INCOIS, established under the Ministry of Earth Sciences in 1999, has been steadfast in its mission to provide the best ocean information and advisory services to society. It continues to play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of the oceans through sustained observations and focused research.

The Ocean Society of India (OSI)

The OSI, with its mission to provide a forum for sharing knowledge and experiences in ocean science and technology, has played a vital role in fostering collaboration and learning among individuals, research institutions, and industrial organizations in India. The biennial conferences organized by OSI have been instrumental in uniting professionals and students in the pursuit of ocean knowledge.