Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Highlights Major Developments at 20th Maritime State Development Council in Goa
The 20th Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) in Goa concluded with significant outcomes for India’s maritime sector, according to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Union Minister of Port Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized the Council’s role in aligning policies and resolving key issues, facilitating the growth of over 50 non-major ports.
Sonowal stated, ‘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 capitalize on emerging opportunities.’
He also highlighted the recent foundation stone laying of India’s 13th major port at Vadhavan in Maharashtra and the designation of Galathea Bay in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as a ‘Major Port’. These projects aim to enhance India’s maritime capabilities and capture transshipped cargo currently handled outside India.
The two-day event addressed over 80 critical issues, including port infrastructure modernization, connectivity, statutory compliances, maritime tourism, navigation projects, sustainability, and port security. Over 100 issues from various states were deliberated and successfully resolved.
New challenges were also addressed, such as the establishment of Places of Refuge (PoR) for ships in distress, the development of radioactive detection equipment (RDE) infrastructure at ports, and the facilitation of seafarers by recognizing them as key essential workers.
The Sagarmala program, approved in 2015, envisions 839 projects with an estimated investment of Rs 5.79 lakh crore, slated for completion by 2035. Out of these, 262 projects have been completed, and another 217 are under active implementation.
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.
Doubts Revealed
Union Minister -: A Union Minister is a person who is in charge of a specific department in the government of India. They help make important decisions and policies for the country.
Sarbananda Sonowal -: Sarbananda Sonowal is an Indian politician who is currently serving as a Union Minister. He has held various important positions in the government.
Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) -: The Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) is a group that helps make decisions about India’s ports and maritime activities. They work to improve and develop the maritime sector.
Goa -: Goa is a small state in India known for its beautiful beaches and tourism. It is located on the western coast of India.
Non-major ports -: Non-major ports are smaller ports in India that are not as big as the major ones. They still play an important role in trade and transportation.
Port infrastructure -: Port infrastructure refers to the facilities and structures needed for ports to operate, like docks, warehouses, and cranes.
Maritime tourism -: Maritime tourism involves travel and activities related to the sea, like cruises, water sports, and visiting coastal areas.
Seafarer welfare -: Seafarer welfare means taking care of the people who work on ships, ensuring they have good working conditions, health care, and other support.
Vadhavan -: Vadhavan is a place in India where a new port is being developed. This port will help in increasing trade and transportation.
Galathea Bay -: Galathea Bay is another location in India where a new port project is planned. It will help in boosting the maritime sector.
