Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, will lead the 19th meeting of the Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) on August 18-19 in Kevadia, Gujarat. The conference will address key issues concerning maritime sector growth. It will gather Chief Ministers, Senior Ministers, and officials from Coastal States and Union Territories, alongside representatives from relevant ministries. The MSDC, established in 1997, acts as a top advisory body for maritime sector development, focusing on major and non-major port advancement, national waterways, RoPax/Ferries, urban passenger waterways, port connectivity, and more. The meeting will also discuss preparations for the Global Maritime India Summit 2023.
Prelims pointer
- Sarbananda Sonowal: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, responsible for overseeing the maritime sector’s development and related policies.
- Maritime State Development Council (MSDC): Established in 1997, it’s an apex advisory body focusing on the integrated growth of major and non-major ports, overseeing the development of maritime infrastructure, and liaising with relevant stakeholders.
- Sagarmala Programme: A national initiative aimed at unlocking the potential of India’s coastline and waterways by promoting port-led industrialization and coastal community development.
- National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), Lothal: A proposed development in Gujarat to preserve and showcase India’s maritime heritage, including historical artifacts, shipbuilding traditions, and cultural aspects related to the sea.
- Global Maritime India Summit 2023 (GMIS 2023): A significant event aimed at bringing together international and domestic maritime stakeholders to explore opportunities, address challenges, and attract investment in India’s maritime sector.
