Global Maritime India Summit 2023: Roadshow in Bhubaneswar sets the stage fostering the nation’s collective Maritime aspirations.

Bhubaneswar, September 05, 2023 (Pratyusha Bureau): In the run-up to the third edition of the Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS) 2023, the Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MOPSW), & AYUSH, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, gave a special address at the roadshow held at Mayfair Convention, Bhubaneswar, today. The minister noted that India is on the cusp of a new era in its maritime sector and that the country is beginning a journey of progress through technological advancements and infrastructure enhancement for a welcoming business environment. The event gathered eminent minds and industry leaders, igniting discussions around key opportunities, innovation, and the roadmap towards a sustainable future for Indian Maritime industry. Shri Sonowal emphasised in his special message that “These roadshows exemplify our commitment to fostering linkages and collaboration in order to advance the Indian Maritime Industry. The Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision and establishing GMIS 2023 as a hub driving growth while supporting our Government’s broad goals are essential to our transformational journey towards maritime excellence.” Additionally, he stated that “India is strengthening its position as a global centre for the blue economy, taking the lead in crafting the next phase of South Asia’s maritime history. This roadshow highlights both our shared cultural ties and our commitment as a group to make a substantial regional impact.

Shri Shantanu Thakur, Hon’ble Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Government of India, conveyed his perspective on the summit’s objectives, highlighting, “Today’s event mirrors our nation’s collective maritime aspirations, underlining Bhubaneswar pivotal role in this united voyage.” He also added “Maritime India sets sail towards a transformative future with the ambitious Vision 2030! From record-breaking cargo traffic and port capacity growth to cutting-edge legislative reforms, India’s maritime sector charts a course for international excellence. With increased autonomy and global best practices, we’re making waves in ease of doing business. The world takes note as India’s Maritime prowess continues to surge, contributing 12% to global seafarers and fostering port-led industrialization. This is just the beginning of our maritime journey!” He further emphasized on strategic importance of promoting maritime development and connectivity in a region like Bhubaneswar, which holds both historical maritime significance and considerable economic promise. The event brought together industry experts and government officials, fostering dynamic discussions on crucial opportunities within the Indian Maritime sector. Bhushan Kumar, Joint secretary, Ministry of Ports, shipping and waterways, Government of India added, “We anticipate a surge in automated ports and terminals as we have strategically aligned all future developments under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode. This partnership with the private sector is poised to not only elevate the efficiency of our ports but also revolutionize their performance and enhanced productivity standards.” Shri PL Haranadh, IRTS, Chairperson, PPA in his welcome address said that “The GMIS 2023 is a great opportunity not only for Paradip Port but also for other ports of Odisha like Gopalpur, Dhamra, Subarnarekha, and Astaranga ports. All these ports should not compete, but collaborate and cooperate with each other to provide a logistically convenient ecosystem to all the stakeholders in Odisha” Conveying a significant message that underscores influential endeavours targeted at strengthening the foundational aspects of the maritime industry, Shri Hemant Sharma, IAS principal secretary, Industries Department, Govt. of Odisha said that “Our government sails full steam ahead in recognizing the maritime sector’s pivotal role in our nation’s industrial development.