The 20th Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) wrapped up its two-day meeting in Goa on Friday, setting a new course for India’s maritime sector with over 100 key resolutions.
The MSDC’s discussions spanned several critical areas, including the modernization of port infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, ensuring statutory compliance, boosting maritime tourism, advancing navigation projects, promoting sustainability, and strengthening port security. During the meeting, more than 80 pressing issues were resolved.
A major focus of the Council was addressing emerging challenges. This included establishing Places of Refuge (PoR) for distressed ships and developing radioactive detection equipment (RDE) at ports to improve security. The Council also aimed to enhance conditions for seafarers, advocating for their recognition as essential workers to facilitate better working conditions and shore leave.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The MSDC has been pivotal in resolving issues between the Central Government, states, and maritime boards, ensuring the seamless development of India’s maritime infrastructure.” He highlighted that non-major ports, which now handle over 50% of the country’s annual cargo, will be increasingly important as major ports approach saturation.
The meeting also spotlighted the Sagarmala program, a significant initiative approved by the Union Cabinet in 2015. This program envisions 839 projects with an estimated investment of ₹5.79 lakh crore by 2035. To date, 262 projects valued at approximately ₹1.40 lakh crore have been completed, with 217 projects worth around ₹1.65 lakh crore currently in progress.
Plans for a Mega Shipbuilding Park were discussed, aimed at consolidating shipbuilding capabilities and fostering innovation across states. Additionally, the Indian International Maritime Dispute Resolution Centre (IIMDRC) was introduced to provide industry-governed solutions for maritime disputes, positioning India as a global arbitration hub.
A significant highlight of the event was the keel laying of India’s largest dredger, a 12,000 Cu. M. Trailer Suction Hopper Dredger (TSHD), at Cochin Shipyard Limited in collaboration with IHC Holland.
The MSDC also showcased innovations from various maritime boards. These included Kerala’s monetization techniques for dredging, Gujarat’s port-driven urban development projects, Andhra Pradesh’s maritime development masterplan, and the Indian Coast Guard’s successful Maersk Frankfurt fire rescue operation.
Union Minister Sonowal also highlighted the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat, set to become a premier international tourist destination celebrating India’s maritime heritage. The NMHC will feature collaborations with 25 countries, with MoUs already signed with Portugal, the UAE, and Vietnam, and additional agreements underway with France, Norway, Iran, and Myanmar.
(ANI)