The Sagarmanthan – The Great Oceans Dialogue commenced recently as South Asia‘s largest maritime summit. Hosted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the event aims to advance sustainable maritime practices. It features participation from global policymakers and maritime experts, denoting India’s strategic maritime vision.
India’s Maritime Vision 2047
India’s Maritime Vision 2047 outlines a roadmap for transforming its maritime sector. The goal is to enhance sustainability, connectivity, and technology use. A important investment of ₹80 lakh crores is planned to improve port capacity and develop shipping infrastructure. Key projects include the Vizhinjam International Seaport and new mega ports in Maharashtra and Nicobar.
Strategic Maritime Initiatives
India aims to increase its port handling capacity to 10,000 million metric tons per annum by 2047. Initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor are very important for enhancing global trade partnerships.
Decarbonisation Efforts
The dialogue emphasises India’s commitment to decarbonising the maritime sector. Green initiatives such as the Harit Sagar Guidelines and the National Green Hydrogen Mission are in place. India is also exploring clean-fuel shipbuilding, focusing on ammonia, hydrogen, and electric-powered vessels.
Global Collaboration and Partnerships
The summit serves as a platform for encouraging international maritime relationships. The bilateral discussions between India and Greece aim to expand trade and cooperation in various maritime sectors. Both nations are committed to sustainable development and exploring renewable energy opportunities.
Technological Innovation in Maritime Practices
The dialogue showcases India’s advancements in port digitisation and renewable energy integration. The focus is on optimising efficiency, minimising pollution, and ensuring resilience across the maritime chain. The aim is to create a stable regulatory framework for sustainable maritime practices.
Socio-Economic Impact on Coastal Communities
The dialogue also addresses the socio-economic potential of coastal communities. Emphasising the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” the summit marks the need for collaborative efforts to ensure economic growth while preserving ecological balance.
Future Prospects and Maritime Heritage
The National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal is project aimed at reviving India’s shipbuilding legacy. The complex will serve as a hub for maritime heritage and education, encouraging a deeper understanding of maritime history and practices.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the significance of India’s Maritime Vision 2047 in the context of global trade.
- Discuss the role of international collaborations in achieving sustainable maritime practices.
- Critically discuss the impact of technological innovation on maritime governance and efficiency.
- With suitable examples, analyse the socio-economic benefits of coastal community development initiatives.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the significance of India’s Maritime Vision 2047 in the context of global trade.
- India’s Maritime Vision 2047 aims to enhance port capacity to 10,000 million metric tons per annum, crucial for global trade facilitation.
- The vision includes important investments (₹80 lakh crores) in shipping infrastructure, boosting trade connectivity.
- Strategic initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) aim to strengthen trade routes and partnerships.
- Key projects such as the Vizhinjam International Seaport and new mega ports are set to transform India’s maritime landscape.
- The vision aligns with global sustainability goals, promoting eco-friendly practices in maritime trade.
2. Discuss the role of international collaborations in achieving sustainable maritime practices.
- International collaborations encourage knowledge sharing and best practices for sustainable maritime policies.
- Partnerships, like those between India and Greece, aim to enhance trade and address shared maritime challenges.
- Joint initiatives can lead to the development of regulatory frameworks that prioritize environmental sustainability.
- Collaborative efforts can enhance the technological capabilities of nations, promoting innovation in clean shipping practices.
- Global partnerships can also facilitate funding and investment in sustainable maritime infrastructure projects.
3. Critically discuss the impact of technological innovation on maritime governance and efficiency.
- Technological advancements in port digitisation streamline operations, improving efficiency and reducing turnaround times.
- Innovative technologies enhance tracking and monitoring of shipping, leading to better governance and compliance with regulations.
- Smart shipping solutions help in minimising pollution and optimizing resource use, aligning with sustainability goals.
- Technological innovations facilitate data-driven decision-making, improving overall maritime governance frameworks.
- Investment in R&D for clean-fuel technologies supports long-term sustainability in the maritime sector.
4. With suitable examples, analyse the socio-economic benefits of coastal community development initiatives.
- Coastal community initiatives promote job creation in shipping, fishing, and tourism, enhancing local economies.
- Programs focusing on sustainable fishing practices help preserve marine resources while ensuring livelihoods.
- Investment in maritime infrastructure, like ports, boosts connectivity and access to markets for local products.
- Community engagement in maritime heritage projects, such as the National Maritime Heritage Complex, encourages cultural pride and education.
- Collaborative efforts ensure that economic growth aligns with ecological preservation, benefiting both communities and the environment.
