NCC Naval Wing Cadets: Catalysts for Sustainable Maritime Tourism and Coastal Development

Stretching to approximately 7,500 kms, India's coastline and its Blue Economy account for almost 4% of the country's GDP every year. Additionally, India's status as the residence of the world's largest youth organization, the National Cadet Corps (NCC), provides it with a considerable advantage in promoting its maritime sector. India’s coastline is not just an economic asset but also a reflection of a centuries-old maritime culture; from ancient ports like Lothal and Muziris to traditional boat building and seafaring practices that have shaped India’s history of trade and navigation. The core tents of NCC instill within all students, equally, the values of leadership and patriotism that make them the catalysts for reforms in potentially high yielding sectors of India like its coastal region. Around 18% of the Indian population can be found in 72 coastal districts that co-exist with the marine ecosystem and hence require careful attention to be paid to its preservation. This research paper undertakes a retrospective analysis of India’s maritime history whilst simultaneously analyzing its current ‘blue economy’ to show how its youth force can be leveraged through the NCC to promote marine tourism without its exploitation. Within the context of coastal development in India there exists a significant gap because this sector is largely regulated by local operators, with little to no supervision, who seldom consider the broader implications of their actions. NCC Cadets who are aptly trained in maritime protocol can come to the aid of India in such a situation and serve as an invaluable national resource.