1.1. Coastline changes, sediment transport, and Integrated management

Convener: Prof. Jaya Kumar Seelam, OSI; Prof. P. Rajendra Prasad, AHI
Co-Convener: Dr K. Sreelash, NCESS; Dr Mani Murali R, OSI; Dr R. Hari Kumar, INCOIS; Dr Reji Srinivas, NCESS

Organised by: OSI, INCOIS, NCESS

This session will focus on the physical processes shaping coastal environments, including tidal movements, wave dynamics, and coastal erosion. Presentations will explore the environmental and socio-economic impacts of coastal processes, particularly in the context of climate change and human development. An integrated approach allows for balancing development with environmental protection, reducing risks from climate change impacts and human activities.

1.2. Marine Geo Dynamics

Convener: M. Radhakrishna, IGU
Co-Convener: Dr Sandeep Kumar Gupta, CSIR-NGRI; Dr Ajay Kumar, INCOIS

Organised by: IGU, CSIR-NGRI,INCOIS

This session will explore the interconnected processes of marine geodynamics and ocean circulation, which play a pivotal role in shaping Earth’s climate and ecosystems. Presentations will cover the latest research on the physical and geological forces driving ocean currents, tectonic activity beneath the ocean floor, and the complex interactions between the solid earth and oceanic processes. Understanding these dynamic systems is crucial for improving climate models, predicting weather patterns, and assessing the impact of natural hazards. Additionally, the session will examine how geosphere-hydrosphere interactions influence global climate systems, including the role of the oceans in heat and carbon distribution.

1.3. Climate change - Sea-level changes, Marine heatwaves

Convener: : Dr C. Gnanaseelan, OSI; Dr Rahul Mohan, NCPOR
Co-Convener: Dr R.S Mahendra, INCOIS

Organised by: NCPOR, INCOIS, OSI

As the global climate warms, rising sea levels and the increasing frequency and intensity of marine heatwaves pose significant threats to coastal communities, ecosystems, and economies. Presentations will highlight the latest research on the science of sea-level changes, including their drivers and projections, as well as the ecological and socio-economic consequences for coastal regions. This session will explore the critical impacts of climate change on coastal and marine environments, focusing on sea-level rise and marine heatwaves.

2.1. Mineral resources - placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, marine minerals

Convener: Dr. Yamuna Singh, GSI , Dr. Biswajit Mandal, CSIR-NGRI
Co-Convener: Prof B Veeraiah, AEG

Organised by: GSI, AEG, AMD, CSIR-NGRI

The Indian Ocean is rich in mineral resources, including polymetallic nodules, seafloor massive sulfides, and rare earth elements. This session will focus on the sustainable extraction of these resources, the technologies involved in seabed mining, and the environmental and ethical considerations surrounding deep-sea mining. Discussions will also touch on the economic importance of these resources to global industries.

2.2. Bio resources - Fisheries, drugs from the ocean, and Mangroves

Convener: Prof. K.V. Jayachandran, OSI; Dr Yamuna Singh, GSI;
Co-Convener: Prof. B. Veeraiah, AEG; Dr Sneha Jha, INCOIS

Organised by: INCOIS, OSI, PSI

This session will delve into the diverse and valuable resources the ocean provides, focusing on sustainable fisheries management, the development of drugs derived from marine organisms, and the conservation of mangrove ecosystems. Presentations will cover the importance of healthy fisheries for global food security and economic stability, as well as innovative approaches to sustainable fishing practices. Additionally, the session will explore the promising field of marine pharmaceuticals, highlighting marine species as sources of novel compounds for drug development. Mangroves, with their crucial role in coastal protection and biodiversity, will also be discussed, focusing on conservation efforts and their significance in climate change mitigation. The session will emphasize the need for integrated solutions that balance economic development with environmental sustainability.

2.3. Coastal aquifers and Submarine discharges - Coastal aquifers, Seawater intrusion, submarine groundwater discharges

Convener: Prof. P. Rajendra Prasad, AHI
Co-Convener: Dr. K. Sreelash, NCESS ; Dr. Mani Murali R, OSI

Organised by: AHI, NCESS, OSI

As coastal regions face increasing demands for freshwater and the pressures of climate change, understanding the dynamics of coastal aquifers and their vulnerability to seawater intrusion is more critical than ever. Presentations will explore the latest research on the processes driving seawater intrusion, the impacts of submarine groundwater discharges (SGD) on coastal ecosystems, and innovative solutions for sustainable groundwater management in coastal areas. This session will provide an in-depth exploration of the critical issues surrounding coastal aquifers, seawater intrusion, and submarine groundwater discharges. By sharing the latest research and technological innovations, the session aims to foster discussions on sustainable water management practices and strategies to protect these vital coastal water resources.

2.4. Energy resources - Gas hydrates, oil and gas, hydrothermal, wave, tide and wind energies

Convener: Dr Kalachand Sain, CSIR-NGRI
Co-Convener: Dr Labany Ray, CSIR-NGRI; Dr. Biswajit Mandal, IGU

Organised by: SPG, IGU, CSIR-NGRI, KDMIPE

This session will explore the latest advancements in energy extraction and utilization from emerging sources, focusing on gas hydrates, oil and gas reserves, and renewable ocean energies, including hydrothermal, wave, tide, and wind energies. We will discuss the potential of gas hydrates as a future source of natural gas, the evolving technologies in the extraction and use of oil and gas, and the integration of renewable ocean-based energy systems. Presentations will highlight cutting-edge research in the extraction techniques for gas hydrates and hydrocarbons, as well as innovations in harnessing the power of ocean energy through wave, tide, wind, and hydrothermal systems. The focus will be on how innovative technologies and research are driving the exploration, extraction, and utilization of these diverse energy sources, while addressing global sustainability and energy security challenges.

3.1. Geo Hazards - Meteorological extreme events, Marine and Coastal Hazards, Earthquakes, landslides, Pollution, and related subjects with         Special Emphasis on Space-Based Observation of Geohazards and Ionospheric Seismology.

Convener: Dr Sumer Chopra, ISES, Dr A K Pandey, CSIR-NGRI, Dr Mala S. Bagiya, IIG
Co-Convener: Dr Abhey Ram Bansal, ISES;

Organised by: IIG, WIHG, ISES, CSIR-NGRI

This session will address the complex challenges posed by natural disasters and ecological hazards, including cyclones, storm surges, tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, submarine landslides, flooding, sinkholes, and pollution. The session will explore the role of technology in early warning systems, disaster preparedness, and response, as well as examine how human activities contribute to ecological degradation and exacerbate natural hazards. By highlighting both the science behind these phenomena and innovative solutions, the session will explore effective ways to safeguard communities, preserve ecosystems, and build resilience in the face of these global challenges. Furthermore, the session will place special emphasis on space-based observational techniques for studying terrestrial processes, with a particular focus on the detection and analysis of earthquakes and tsunamis through their atmospheric and ionospheric signatures within the framework of Ionospheric Seismology.

4.1. Recent Advances in Geoscience & Technology - AI/ML, New observation technologies, Modelling, Early warning systems, Mining

Convener: Dr B.K. Bansal, MoES; Dr B P K Patro, CSIR-NGRI
Co-Convener: : Dr Dipankar Saikia, INCOIS; Dr B. Jayashree, IIG

Organised by: INCOIS, IIG, CSIR-NGRI, GSI

This session will showcase the latest innovations at the intersection of AI/ML, observation technologies, and modeling in geoscience and mining. By highlighting their application in early warning systems, hazard mitigation, and resource management, we will illustrate the potential of these technologies to drive sustainable practices, improve safety, and foster innovation in these critical industries. The integration of technology with traditional geoscientific methods opens new avenues for research, hazard mitigation, and sustainable resource management, positioning the field to address global challenges in the years ahead.