Kattankulathur: The International Conference on AI for the Oceans 2025 (ICAIO 2025) was inaugurated at the SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), with experts emphasising the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in addressing environmental and ocean-related challenges.

Organised in collaboration with the Marine Technology Society (MTS) India Section, the three-day conference has drawn over 250 delegates, including scientists, policymakers, academicians, and industry leaders. The conference builds on the 2023 MTS TechSurge and spans 12 thematic tracks ranging from marine conservation and autonomous systems to deep-sea exploration and global climate solutions.

“AI is not a challenge—it is a catalyst for change,” said Dr. Balaji Ramakrishnan, Director, NIOT, in his special address. Dr. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, described “AI for Ocean” as a mission for humanity's future, stressing interdisciplinary collaboration to build sustainable coastal systems.

Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, highlighted the ocean's role in sustainable solutions for food, energy, and health.

The event also saw the release of conference proceedings and a special IEEE CSI issue. A highlight was the MTS India Section Lifetime Achievement Award, honouring outstanding marine contributions.