The first National Centre of Excellence for Green Port & Shipping (NCoEGPS) in India recently made headlines when it was launched at the International Maritime Conference and Exhibition, “INMARCO 2022,” held in Mumbai. Organized every four years by the Institute of Marine Engineers in India, this event provided a grand stage for the unveiling of this significant initiative taken by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MOPSW).
About NCoEGPS
The NCoEGPS is an endeavor towards providing greener solutions in the maritime industry. The Centre will be operating under the framework of the Sagarmala programme of the MoPSW and the Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) will serve as the knowledge and implementation partner for this project.
The Goals of NCoEGPS
At its core, the Centre aims to develop regulatory frameworks and alternative technology adoption roadmaps for Green Shipping in India. Green Shipping defines the conservation-oriented use of resources and energy for maritime transportation, with a particular emphasis on reducing related environmental pollutants and greenhouse gases (GHGs). India plans to raise renewable energy usage to 60% of the total power demand at each of its major ports, a significant increase from the current usage of less than 10%.
Objectives of the Project
The project seeks to foster the ‘Make in India’ initiative in Port, Coastal, and Inland water transport, and Engineering sectors by developing state-of-the-art technologies and application products. Through fostering innovation, it aims to deliver the most appropriate solutions to various challenges faced in these sectors. Additionally, the Centre will create a competent manpower pool equipped with cutting-edge theoretical and practical knowledge. Another significant goal is self-sufficiency in providing solutions through scientific studies, technology development, and technical expertise.
Significance of NCoEGPS
The establishment of the Centre marks a significant stride towards realizing the Mission Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE). It aims to interact with all ports, shipping, and maritime states, comprehending their challenges and offering solutions through proven scientific approaches.
Related Green Initiatives
Concurrent with this initiative, the ports also aim to reduce carbon emissions per ton of cargo handled by 30% by 2030. The Maritime Vision Document 2030 presents a ten-year blueprint for a sustainable maritime sector and a vibrant blue economy. Furthermore, as part of the International Maritime Organisation’s Green Voyage 2050 project, India has been chosen to conduct a pilot project related to Green Shipping.
Green Voyage 2050 Project
Launched in May 2019, the Green Voyage 2050 Project is a collaborative project between the Government of Norway and the International Maritime Organisation. It aims to transition the shipping industry towards a lower carbon future. This global partnership assists developing countries, including Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), in meeting their commitments to climate change and energy efficiency goals for international shipping. The project’s primary objective is to encourage global efforts to demonstrate and test technology solutions.
Historical Examination Questions
For instance, a previous year question from the UPSC Civil Services Examination regarding the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC)was given. The question highlighted the establishment history, alliances involved, and the basic objectives of the IOR-ARC. The detailed explanation referred to the organization’s establishment in Mauritius in March 1997 for promoting economic and technical cooperation among its members. The IOR-ARC is not exclusively a maritime security alliance and is diverse, emphasizing the socio-economic and cultural cooperation in the Indian Ocean Rim region, thereby debunking the incorrect options in the question. This instance demonstrates that a thorough understanding of such issues can aid in performing well in competitive examinations.
