Dr. Dilip Kumar Jha, Scientist-F at the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) and Officer-in-Charge of the Atal Centre for Ocean Science and Technology for Islands (ACOSTI) in Sri Vijaya Puram, has been conferred the K Chidambaram Memorial Award for 2024. The award was presented on July 12 at the Commissionerate of Fisheries in Chennai by the Fisheries Technocrats Forum, recognizing his pioneering work in environmental and marine sciences.
Dr. Jha was one of four recipients honored this year for their contributions to the fields of fisheries, aquaculture, and marine technology. The award, named after the late K Chidambaram, who served in senior fisheries positions in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and the Union Government, celebrates excellence in sustainable marine development.
Dr. Jha’s recognition is a nod to his extensive work in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and hydrological modelling. His projects have focused on both the Indian mainland coast and the oceanic islands, with a special emphasis on the unique ecosystems of the Andaman and Nicobar region.
As the head of ACOSTI, Dr. Jha has played a key role in integrating scientific research with local policy planning. His contributions have informed government initiatives in coastal resilience, marine infrastructure, and climate mitigation. His GIS-based models have been used to predict shoreline vulnerability and assist in disaster preparedness planning.
NIOT officials have noted that Dr. Jha’s work has bridged the gap between field research and public application, allowing policymakers to make data-informed decisions. His projects have been especially relevant to island territories, where ecological sensitivity is high and infrastructure needs are growing.
The Fisheries Technocrats Forum cited Dr. Jha’s sustained impact in transforming marine science into actionable insights as a major reason for his selection. His studies on hydrology and bathymetry have aided in harbour design, marine navigation, and aquaculture zoning.
His award is being viewed as not only a personal achievement but also as a recognition of the growing importance of island-based marine science. ACOSTI, under his leadership, has emerged as a key scientific outpost in the central Indian Ocean region, drawing attention to the strategic and ecological value of India’s island chains.
The award comes at a time when marine biodiversity, coastal infrastructure, and ocean governance are assuming greater national importance. Experts believe that honouring scientists working at the intersection of environment and development will boost innovation and investment in these sectors.
The recognition also puts a spotlight on NIOT’s role under the Ministry of Earth Sciences in facilitating high-quality, field-based marine research. With Sri Vijaya Puram steadily gaining prominence in oceanographic circles, Dr. Jha’s award reinforces the town’s position on the national scientific map.
