The public awareness on the usefulness of oceans and the potential for exploration and exploitation of vast resources of the ocean on a sustained basis is an important aspect. Towards this, the Department has been organising exhibitions, fairs, symposia etc. apart from publications .

5.4.1 Exhibitions, Fairs, Publications etc.

Some of the ocean related models, displays, panels etc., were either modified or updated. Exhibitions were organised on `ocean as a resource to mankind' at Goa, `ocean science' at Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi, in 1995 and 1996, at Shilp Vigyan Mahila at Calcutta and in various schools in New Delhi on the occasion of National Science Day. The preparation for producing films on `Preparing for the future' and `Sustainable future' is in progress.

5.4.2 Seminars, Symposia, Conferences etc.

Financial assistance was provided to various Institutions / Research organisations, Non-Government Bodies etc., for organising and conducting 28 seminars, which provided a common platform for academicians, scientists, industrialists and the general public for exchanging information.

5.4.3 Marine Aquaria, Oceanaria etc.

Under the scheme, it is proposed to promote establishment of oceanarium on Build, Own, Operate and Maintain (BOOM) basis in the private sector. The task of identification of a suitable firm to build an oceanarium at Goa is in progress, for which a global tender has been floated. After consulting the Government of Goa, a site in Miramar beach, Goa, measuring 32,000 sq. metre has been identified for construction of the oceanarium complex containing an Underwater World, musical fountain and other attractions. The main tank containing acrylic tunnel will have 6000 numbers of marine animals representing at least 350 species. The animals will be in the range of sharks, turtles, rays, colourful fishes and corals.