For utilising the ocean resources in a sustainable way and making the benefits cost effective, it is important to understand oceanic processes. Knowledge of ocean dynamics is a prerequisite for prediction of ocean state based on ocean models.

5.4.1 Indian Ocean Modelling and Dynamics (INDOMOD)

During the year 1998-99, dynamics of marine ecosystem and air-sea exchange of carbon dioxide were studied using Modular Ocean Model. Air-sea interaction process for monsoon prediction was studied using ocean-atmosphere coupled model. A storm surge prediction model for estimating inland inundation in Andhra coast was developed and a seven component Nitrogen-based Ecosystem Model completed.

5.4.2 Joint Global Ocean Flux Study - JGOFS (India)

During the year, the observation part of the JGOFS programme was completed. Data collected were analysed to estimate the carbon flux in the Arabian sea and were presented in an International Seminar held at Bangalore in January, 1999. The Arabian Sea has now been identified as a source of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The Department has formulated a plan for undertaking a similar study in the Bay of Bengal which is now under consideration for approval.

5.4.3 Land Ocean Interaction in the Coastal Zone (LOICZ)

A multi-disciplinary cruise along west coast of India in 1998-99, was carried out for observing the carbon associated elemental fluxes which are potential contributors to land-ocean interaction and for improving the predicative capability of variability of the coastal zones of India due to climate change along the Arabian Sea.