Report: Coastal zone management plans and policies in India

India, with a vast coastal front, witnesses a wide range of coastal processes and activities. As the country's economic growth depends largely on effective utilization of the coast and coastal resources, management strategies have gained significance in recent years. Though both the central and state governments have taken initiatives in the implementation of various schemes for better utilization and management of the coast, certain external factors have decelerated the progress. For successful management, all important issues related to coastal zone should be considered prior to implementation. In addition, participation of beneficiaries in the preparation of coastal management schemes would fetch good results, and the concept of public involvement in the exercise is gaining momentum. This article highlights various coastal zone processes and activities along the east coast of India, especially along the coast of Tamil Nadu. Policies of both the central and state governments with regard to coastal zone management are provided, and additional aspects to be considered while preparing the management plan are discussed.