International Hydrographic Organization (IHO): Charting the World's Waters

World Hydrography Day:

1. Celebrated: Annually on June 21st.
2. Purpose: To raise awareness about hydrography.
3. 2024 Theme: "Hydrographic Information - Enhancing Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability in Marine Activities."

About the IHO:

1. Intergovernmental Organization: Works to ensure the surveying and charting of all navigable waters worldwide.
2. Establishment: Founded in 1921.
3. Functions:
   1. Coordinates national hydrographic offices.
   2. Promotes uniformity in nautical charts and documents.
   3. Issues best practices for surveys.
   4. Provides guidelines for maximising hydrographic data usage.
   5. Develops hydrographic capabilities in member states.
4. Membership: Currently has 100 Member States.
5. Headquarters: Hosted by the Principality of Monaco.

India's Role in IHO:

1. Active Member: Since 1955.
2. Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD):
   1. Established in 1874 (formerly Marine Survey of India).
   2. Nodal agency for hydrographic surveys in India.
   3. Operates a fleet of modern survey ships.

Hydrological Status and Outlook System (HydroSOS):

1. WMO Initiative: Developed by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO).
2. Goal: To provide global-scale information on the current status of freshwater systems.
3. Target Users: Government bodies, basin managers, funding institutions, etc.
4. Purpose: Help water users understand and adapt to changes in the world's freshwater resources.

 

 

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