On 15th October 2019, the Maritime States Development Council (MSDC) gathered for their 17th meeting in New Delhi to discuss the future development of India’s maritime sector. Key progressions and plans were highlighted, including a National Port Grid, port capacity expansion, digitisation of processes, pollution-free water transport, common inland waterways guidelines, and an increased emphasis on maritime security and cruise tourism. The establishment of research-based institutions, like the Centre for Inland and Coastal Maritime Technology (CICMT) and the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC), was also a significant point of discussion.
The Plan for a National Port Grid
The Ministry of Shipping is in the process of developing a national port grid that utilises the synergy between the country’s major and minor ports. Out of the 204 minor ports in the country, merely 44 are currently functional. Therefore, the revival of each port becomes crucial, which involves identifying the specific cargo linked to it and understanding the downstream industry.
Expansion of Port Capacity
The Ministry aims to expand port capacity through the implementation of well-planned infrastructure development projects. One of these steps entails the digitisation of processes to minimise human interface eventually. A significant initiative, the Ministry plans to make water transport free from pollution to bring down the logistics cost.
Addressing Other Issues
Besides focusing on the expansion and revival of the ports, the MSDC meeting also touched upon several other crucial issues. One such matter is the development of comprehensive and common guidelines for inland waterways barges. It would ensure that barges from different states can move seamlessly in coastal waters.
| Number of Minor Ports | Functional Ports | Non-functional Ports |
|---|---|---|
| 204 | 44 | 160 |
Focus on Port Security and Cruise Tourism
The MSDC has committed to ensuring international levels of security at every port throughout the country. The advent of cruise tourism in India was also emphasised during the meeting. Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are being developed in Smart Industrial Port Cities like Kandla in Gujarat and Paradip in Odisha, highlighting their importance.
Establishment of Research-Based Institutes
The Maritime States Development Council proposed the establishment of research-based institutes like the Centre for Inland and Coastal Maritime Technology at IIT Kharagpur and the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts at IIT Madras. These institutions will boost the maritime industry by providing indigenous research and skilled manpower.