Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Visits Mormugao Port
Panjim (Goa), September 12: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal visited the Mormugao Port to inspect the upcoming International Cruise Terminal. He toured the construction site and experienced the port’s facilities with a yacht ride. As part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, he also planted a sapling at the port.
Upcoming 20th Maritime State Development Council Meeting
Sonowal briefed the media about the 20th Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) meeting, which will take place in Goa on September 12th and 13th, 2024. The meeting will bring together Chief Ministers, Senior Ministers from Coastal States, and Administrators of Union Territories (UTs). Senior officials from nine coastal states, four UTs, and representatives from various Union government ministries and departments will also attend.
Key Topics of Discussion
The MSDC meeting will address several key maritime initiatives, including:
- Reviewing the Sagarmala Programme
- Discussing the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat
- Developing the inland waterway network
- Improving road and rail connectivity to ports
- Showcasing innovative state-led initiatives
- Focusing on environmental sustainability
Other discussions will include compliance status of Major and Non-Major ports, boosting the shipbuilding and ship repair industries, reviewing Sagar Aankalan guidelines, and improving the port ranking system in India.
MSDC’s Role and Objectives
Established in 1997, the MSDC serves as the apex advisory body for the development of India’s maritime sector. Chaired by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, the Council aims to promote the integrated growth of Major and Non-Major ports in coordination with state governments. This gathering reaffirms the government’s commitment to advancing India’s maritime infrastructure and fostering sustainable growth.
Doubts Revealed
Union Minister -: A Union Minister is a member of the central government in India who is in charge of a specific department or ministry, like health, education, or transportation.
Sarbananda Sonowal -: Sarbananda Sonowal is an Indian politician who is currently serving as a Union Minister. He has also been the Chief Minister of Assam.
Mormugao Port -: Mormugao Port is a major port in Goa, India. It is one of the oldest ports in the country and handles a lot of cargo and passenger ships.
International Cruise Terminal -: An International Cruise Terminal is a place where large cruise ships dock, allowing passengers to get on and off. It usually has facilities like customs, shops, and waiting areas.
Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam -: ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ is a tree-planting initiative in India. It means ‘One Tree in the Name of Mother’ and encourages people to plant trees to honor their mothers.
Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) -: The Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) is a group that works on improving ports and maritime infrastructure in India. They meet to discuss and plan various projects.
Sagarmala Programme -: The Sagarmala Programme is an initiative by the Indian government to improve the country’s ports and waterways. It aims to boost trade and create jobs.
National Maritime Heritage Complex -: The National Maritime Heritage Complex is a planned museum in India that will showcase the country’s rich maritime history and heritage.
inland waterway development -: Inland waterway development involves improving rivers and canals so that they can be used for transportation. This can help reduce traffic on roads and is more environmentally friendly.
