• It is observed annually on June 21^st.
• It is officially recognized and implemented by the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO).
• It serves as a platform to highlight the crucial work carried out by hydrographers worldwide and to promote the significance of hydrography itself.
• The theme for this year is: “Hydrography – underpinning the digital twin of the ocean.”

ABOUT HYDROGRAPHY

• Hydrography is the branch of applied sciences that deals with the measurement and description of the physical features of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes and rivers, as well as with the prediction of their change over time.
• This is done mainly with specialised ships and boats operating echo sounders and sonars, but also using survey aircraft fitted with lasers.
• Hydrography also involves measuring the tide and the currents.
• It includes shore features, natural and manmade, lights and towers that will aid in fixing a ship’s position, as well as the physical aspects of the sea and seabed.
• The most well-known application of hydrographic information is for making the nautical charts that all mariners use for navigation.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL HYDROGRAPHIC ORGANISATION (IHO):

• IHO was established in 1921 as a prominent entity focused on addressing various aspects of marine life.

The Indian Naval Hydrographic Department functions under the Indian Navy as the nodal agency conducting hydrographic surveys and producing nautical charts in India.

• HQ – Monaco
• It works to ensure that all the world’s seas, oceans and navigable waters are surveyed and charted, thereby supporting the safety of navigation and the protection of the marine environment.
• It coordinates the activities of national hydrographic offices and sets standards in order to promote uniformity in nautical charts and documents.