IOC is an intergovernmental body established in 1960 with functional autonomy within UNESCO. The objective of IOC is to promote marine scientific investigations and related ocean services to learn more about the nature and resources of the oceans through the concerted action of its member States. India is a member of IOC and also a member on its Executive Council. During the 18th session of IOC Assembly held in June, 1995, India was elected as one of the four Vice-Chairmen of IOC for a two year term. India is participating effectively in all the meetings of the Executive Council and IOC Assembly. Many of the national programmes like MARSIS, SELMAM, JGOFS, Data Buoy, etc. form part of the programmes of the IOC.

The major thrust of IOC since the UNCED, 1992 Conference is to establish a Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) with the objective of organising standard, systematic and scientific observations all over the waters of the Globe. The data generated from the GOOS is to be used for the research and developmental activities at national, regional and global levels as well as for predicting and monitoring the changes which may occur in ocean and coastal areas due to the expected change in the climate. The structure for establishment and operation of the GOOS is being formulated at IOC through an Intergovernmental Committee on GOOS. India was re-elected as Vice-Chairman on the GOOS Committee in the Session held in June, 1995.