The research explores the often-overlooked role of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) in strengthening Underwater Domain Awareness. Drawing on examples from Indian coastal communities, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and maritime nomadic groups of Southeast Asia, it identifies gaps in existing research and maritime policy frameworks.
The note proposes a two-tier approach to incorporating indigenous knowledge: integrating community observations into maritime intelligence and surveillance systems, and enabling community participation in marine governance and policymaking. It also addresses challenges involving documentation, data ownership, standardisation, and the gradual loss of traditional knowledge.
- Indigenous knowledge as a valuable resource: Recognises generations of community expertise in understanding ocean currents, tides, marine biodiversity, seabed conditions, and vessel movements.
- Bridging technological gaps: Highlights how community observations can complement sonar, sensors, and other surveillance technologies, particularly in nearshore regions with limited technological coverage.
- Two-tier integration framework: Proposes incorporating indigenous knowledge through structured observation and intelligence gathering, alongside participatory maritime governance.
- Regional perspectives: Draws insights from Indian fishing communities, Nicobarese tribes, and maritime nomadic groups such as the Bajau, Moken, and Orang Laut.
- Strengthening maritime security and sustainability: Emphasises community contributions to coastal surveillance, early warning, sustainable fisheries, marine conservation, and resource management.
- Addressing research and policy gaps: Identifies limited documentation, fragmented research, inadequate institutional mechanisms, and the risk of losing intergenerational knowledge.
- Future recommendations: Advocates community-led documentation, pilot studies, ethical data practices, and stronger institutional participation to build an inclusive and resilient UDA framework.
“”It is also understood that the inclusion of indigenous wisdom is a means “to support diversity and build confidence” in the UDA architecture, and therefore, must be included from the beginning of any conversation on maritime policy rather than be treated as an afterthought to the framework.
Research Intern