The Business Bytes
New Delhi, December 3, 2024 (TBB Bureau): The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways unveiled a slew of initiatives to advance the goals of the Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV 2030) and the ambitious Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 (MAKV 2047). Announced by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, these efforts aim to propel India towards becoming a global maritime hub.
Key initiatives include:
Port Modernization and Maritime Infrastructure Expansion: Two major mega ports—Vadhavan and Galathea Bay—are being developed. Deep draft ports such as Deendayal, Paradip, and V.O. Chidambaranar will facilitate handling of larger vessels like Panamax and Cape size ships. Additionally, the Galathea Bay port is set to emerge as a significant transshipment hub. Modernization and digitalization of port operations, enhanced multimodal port connectivity, and the operationalization of six new National Waterways are poised to bolster efficiency and capacity.
Shipbuilding and Repair Enhancement: A revamped Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Policy is under formulation, with plans for four dedicated clusters to modernize shipyards, attract investment, and create employment opportunities.
Green Initiatives and Sustainability: The “Harit Sagar” Green Port Guidelines aim to reduce carbon intensity and foster eco-friendly operations at major ports. Notable developments include three ports—Deendayal, Paradip, and V.O. Chidambaranar—being developed as Green Hydrogen/Ammonia hubs under the National Hydrogen Mission. Further, the Green Tug Transition Programme and Harit Nauka Guidelines will facilitate greener operations in ports and inland waterways.
Cruise Tourism Development: The Cruise Bharat Mission launched in September 2024 envisions doubling cruise passenger traffic by 2029. Six new international cruise terminals are also being developed to position India as a leading global cruise destination.
Skill Development and Collaboration: Enhanced focus on skilling initiatives, support for MSMEs in shipbuilding, and the promotion of seafarers in academic roles within maritime universities and training institutes aim to boost the industry’s human resource capabilities.
Technological Advancements and Digital Transformation: A range of initiatives, including Smart Communication Systems, a National Logistics Portal Marine 2.0, Maritime Single Window, and the E-Samudra project, will modernize marine navigation, vessel registration, and traffic control. Advanced analytics and AI-based systems will enhance berth allocation and yard management, while a centralized project management system will oversee Capex projects.
Green Shipping and Sustainability: Compliance with the Hong Kong Convention on sustainable recycling is being supported, alongside the development of five Green Hydrogen/Ammonia hubs and over 1,000 green vessels by 2029.
