Bidding farewell to National Centre for Coastal Research
🌅 29 July 2024 marked my last working day at the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India.
As I reflect on my journey at NCCR, I am filled with gratitude for the experience and opportunities that shaped my professional growth. I was fortunate to visit numerous coastal states and union territories (UTs) and cover hundreds of kilometers of coastal stretches, from coasts to mangroves, sand dunes, islands, ports and harbors. 🌊🏝️These varied landscapes provided invaluable real-world perspectives that deeply informed my work.
During my tenure, I had the privilege of being involved in developing shoreline management plans for the states and UTs I covered (Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala), a process that required close collaboration with various stakeholders from government departments and local inhabitants. The work was challenging but immensely rewarding, knowing that our efforts were contributing to sustainable coastal management 🛠️📜.
I also had the opportunity to conduct drone surveys across these diverse terrains, using UAVs to gather critical data. 🚁The experience of flying drones and processing data over such varying landscapes - from rugged coasts to delicate mangroves - was both technically challenging and incredibly insightful, further enhancing our research and its applications.
Engaging with local communities and gaining their on-ground perspectives was a key aspect of my work. 🤝👥 Their input was invaluable in ensuring that our research translated into actionable policies that addressed real-world issues.
I am thankful for the opportunity to participate in and showcase our research at national and international conferences. It was fulfilling to see our work not just discussed but also implemented, making a tangible difference in coastal management strategies 🗣️🌍.
I am proud to have been part of an institution where science is translated into impactful actions, and I look forward to the new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. 🚀
Thank you, NCCR, for an incredible journey.