20th MSDC Concludes with Historic Milestones and Future Projections for India's Maritime Sector

The 20th Maritime State Development Council in Goa resolved over 80 critical issues, announced major port projects, and launched key initiatives to modernize India's maritime sector. The two-day event featured significant contributions from central and state governments, aiming for infrastructure modernization, enhanced security, and sustainable maritime growth.

The 20th Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) in Goa concluded on Friday, marking substantial advancements for India's maritime sector. The event, held over two days, resolved over 80 critical issues discussed among central and state governments, focusing on port infrastructure, connectivity, statutory compliances, maritime tourism, and sustainability.

Key issues addressed included the establishment of Places of Refuge (PoR) for ships in distress, developing radioactive detection equipment (RDE) at ports, and recognizing seafarers as essential workers. Additionally, a state and port ranking system was discussed to foster competition and performance improvements.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, MoS Shantanu Thakur, Goa Minister Aleixo Sequeira, and other dignitaries highlighted MSDC's role in aligning policies and promoting initiatives like the Indian Ports Bill and the Sagarmala program. Sonowal emphasized the importance of non-major ports, the newly designated major port projects in Maharashtra and Andaman & Nicobar, and ongoing Sagarmala projects aimed at substantial infrastructure development.

At the event, the launch of the NSPC application on the National Single Window System platform was announced to streamline regulatory processes, alongside plans for a Mega Shipbuilding Park. The Indian International Maritime Dispute Resolution Centre (IIMDRC) and Indian Maritime Centre (IMC) were also launched to support dispute resolution and strategic planning in the sector.

The event included the keel laying ceremony for India's largest dredger and presentations on maritime innovations from various boards. The meeting also touched on the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Gujarat, aiming to promote India's maritime heritage through global collaborations. The MSDC set a robust agenda, aiming for continued growth and significant contributions to the nation's economy.

(With inputs from agencies.)