20th Maritime State Development Council concludes in Goa

Union Minister of Port Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, who was present at the occasion, emphasised the significance of MSDC's contribution, 'The MSDC has been instrumental in aligning policies and initiatives like the Indian Ports Bill and the Sagarmala programme. By resolving key issues between the Central Government, states, and maritime boards, the Council has ensured the seamless development of India's maritime infrastructure, enabling coastal states to capitalise on emerging opportunities.The MSDC's efforts over the past two decades have facilitated the growth of over 50 non-major ports, which now handle more than 50 percent of India's annual cargo. As major ports approach saturation, these non-major ports will play a crucial role in the future of India's maritime sector'.

'Under the leadership of PM Modi, the Indian maritime sector is growing like never before. Recently, PM Narendra Modi Ji laid the foundation stone of India's 13th major port worth Rs 76,220 crores at Vadhavan in Maharashtra on August 30, 2024. The government has also designated Galathea Bay in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as a 'Major Port'. This Rs 44,000 crore project will be developed under a public-private partnership model and aims to capture transshipped cargo currently handled outside India. The first phase is expected to be operational by 2029', added Sonowal.

This two-day event saw the resolution of over 80 critical issues between the Central government, states, and Union Territories, focused on port infrastructure modernisation, connectivity, statutory compliances, maritime tourism, navigation projects, sustainability, and port security,

During the council, over 100 issues from various states were deliberated and successfully resolved. Several new and emerging challenges were also addressed, including the establishment of Places of Refuge (PoR) for ships in distress, the development of radioactive detection equipment (RDE) infrastructure at ports to enhance security, and the facilitation of seafarers by recognising them as key essential workers, ensuring better working conditions and access to shore leave. Additionally, the meeting discussed the implementation of a state ranking framework and a port ranking system to foster healthy competition and drive performance improvements across India's maritime sector.

The Sagarmala program, approved by the Union Cabinet in 2015, envisions a total of 839 projects with an estimated investment of Rs 5.79 lakh crore, slated for completion by 2035. Out of these, 262 projects, amounting to approximately Rs 1.40 lakh crore, have already been completed, while another 217 projects, valued at around Rs 1.65 lakh crore, are currently under active implementation. These projects span multiple sectors and involve the coordinated efforts of central ministries, state governments, major ports, and various other agencies, reflecting a comprehensive approach to transforming India's maritime infrastructure.

The 20th MSDC meeting has set a strong agenda for the future, ensuring that India's maritime sector continues to grow, contributing significantly to the nation's economy and solidifying its position in the global maritime landscape. (ANI)