Several critical issues resolved during Maritime Development Council meet

PTI, Panaji: More than 80 critical issues between the Centre, states and Union Territories were resolved during the 20th Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) that concluded in Goa on Friday. As per an official release, the two-day event saw the resolution of critical issues focused on port infrastructure modernisation, connectivity, statutory compliances, maritime tourism, navigation projects, sustainability, and port security. During the 20th MSDC, more than 100 issues from various states were deliberated and successfully resolved, it said.

“Several new and emerging challenges were also addressed, including the establishment of places of refuge (PoR) for ships in distress, the development of radioactive detection equipment (RDE) infrastructure at ports to enhance security, and the facilitation of seafarers by recognising them as key essential workers, ensuring better working conditions and access to shore leave,” the statement added. Union Minister of Port Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of State Shantanu Thakur and Goa Minister Aleixo Sequeira, among other dignitaries, were present for the meeting. The meeting discussed the implementation of a state ranking framework and a port ranking system to foster healthy competition and drive performance improvements across India’s maritime sector. Addressing the meeting, Sonowal said the MSDC has been instrumental in aligning policies and initiatives like the Indian Ports Bill and the Sagarmala programme.

“By resolving key issues between the Central Government, states, and maritime boards, the council has ensured the seamless development of India’s maritime infrastructure, enabling coastal states to capitalise on emerging opportunities,” he said. The Union minister said the MSDC’s efforts over the past two decades have facilitated the growth of more than 50 non-major ports, which now handle more than 50 per cent of India’s annual cargo.