On 21 June each year, the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) celebrates World Hydrography Day to highlight the importance of hydrography in enhancing our understanding of seas and oceans.
Theme for 2024: Hydrographic Information
The theme for 2024 is “Hydrographic Information – Enhancing Safety, Efficiency and Sustainability in Marine Activities,” focusing on advancements in navigation technology and their impact on hydrographic services.
Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD)
The INHD operates under the Indian Navy, responsible for hydrographic surveys and nautical charting in India. It plays a crucial role in ensuring safe navigation through the publication of electronic and paper navigational charts.
India WINS
As the NAVAREA VIII coordinator, INHD manages the India Warning Information and Navigation Services (India WINS), offering real-time navigation safety information for the Indian Ocean region.
National Institute of Hydrography (NIH)
Located in Goa, NIH is accredited by the IHO for training in hydrography. It has trained numerous national and international participants, contributing significantly to global hydrographic capabilities.
Survey Operations and International Collaboration
Under India’s SAGAR initiative, Indian Navy survey ships conduct joint operations with friendly nations, covering extensive areas in the Indian Ocean region and producing navigational charts.
Events and Workshops
Events like maritime workshops and Hydrographic Survey Committee meetings are held annually to promote dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders in marine safety and efficiency.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the theme for World Hydrography Day 2024?
- A) Ocean Sustainability
- B) Hydrographic Innovation
- C) Hydrographic Information
- D) Marine Biodiversity
- Answer: C) Hydrographic Information
- Which organization coordinates NAVAREA VIII, providing real-time safety information for the Indian Ocean?
- A) International Maritime Organization (IMO)
- B) International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO)
- C) Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD)
- D) National Institute of Hydrography (NIH)
- Answer: C) Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD)
- Where is the National Institute of Hydrography located?
- A) Mumbai
- B) Chennai
- C) Goa
- D) Kochi
- Answer: C) Goa
- Under India’s SAGAR initiative, Indian Navy survey ships have primarily conducted joint operations for:
- A) Oil exploration
- B) Marine conservation
- C) Maritime boundary disputes
- D) Hydrographic surveying
- Answer: D) Hydrographic surveying
- What is the purpose of Hydrographic Survey Committee meetings conducted annually?
- A) To discuss international maritime law
- B) To promote hydrographic training
- C) To enhance marine navigation safety
- D) To advocate for sustainable fishing practices
- Answer: C) To enhance marine navigation safety