Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation

Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation Latest News

Recently, India assumed Chairmanship of Bay of Bengal (BOB) Inter-Governmental Organisation from Bangladesh at the 13th Governing Council Meeting at Malé, Maldives.

About Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation

• It was set up in 2003.
• It is a unique regional fisheries body, specifically mandated to assist the member countries in increasing the livelihood opportunities and improving the quality of life of the small-scale/ artisanal fisher folk in the Bay of Bengal region.
• The Organisation evolved from the erstwhile Bay of Bengal Programme of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) founded in 1979.
• It has set international benchmarks in execution of programs and activities in the field of small-scale fisheries that has translated into measurable benefits for the member countries.
• Member Countries: The current members of the Organisation are Bangladesh, India, Maldives and Sri Lanka while Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand are cooperating non-contracting parties.

Objectives of Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation

• To increase awareness and knowledge of the needs, benefits and practices of marine fisheries management;
• Enhance skills through training and education; transfer appropriate technologies and techniques for development of small-scale fisheries; establish regional information networking; and promote women's participation in marine fisheries value chain.

Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation FAQs

Q1: What is the Bay of Bengal Programme Inter Governmental Organization?

Ans: The Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organization (BOBP-IGO) is a regional fisheries advisory body established in 2003 to ensure long-term development and utilization of coastal fisheries resources in the Bay of Bengal.

Q2: Who are the members of the Bay of Bengal initiative?

Ans: It includes five Member States from South Asia namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, along with Myanmar and Thailand from Southeast Asia.

Q3: What is the Food and Agriculture Organization?

Ans: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations leading international efforts to defeat hunger.

Source: PIB