Panjim, Goa, 25th August 2023: India’s maritime sector is embarking on a journey of progress through tech advancements, and infrastructure enhancement for a supportive business environment. To commemorate this transformation and growth in the sector, the Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), & AYUSH, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, delivered a special address at a pre-event roadshow held at Goa Marriott Resort, Miramar, Panjim, today.
Paving the way for investment-led collaboration, Shri Sonowal presented an inspiring video message for the stakeholders in maritime industry. He stated, “India emerges as the driving force crafting the next chapter in South Asia’s maritime history and this roadshow represents the strength of our cultural ties and joint determination to make a substantial regional influence.”
He added, “In line with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat goal, GMIS 2023 will serve as a centre for Indian and global maritime industries. It fosters growth and business while staunchly supporting the government’s vision”.
Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways & Tourism conveyed a significant message underscoring influential endeavors targeted at strengthening the foundational aspects of the maritime industry. He stated, “In the wake of collaborative efforts, the Indian maritime landscape has undergone a transformative evolution. United under the government’s leadership, along with industry trailblazers and the resolute maritime community, our trajectory embodies a journey of advancement. GMIS 2023 serves as a celebration of the convergence of technology, heightened infrastructure, enhanced efficiency, and a nurturing business ecosystem. As we convene the world’s maritime leaders, policymakers, investors, and influencers, this summit stands as a focal point for industry expansion.”
Delivering a special address at the roadshow, Dr. N. Vinod Kumar, IPOS, Chairman – Mormugao Port Authority said, “The success of Goa’s cruise tourism industry is intricately woven with its economic potential, strengthened by thoughtful interventions at the state level. At present, we are focusing on purposeful expansions of ports which will not only increase docking capabilities but also elevate the quality of passenger experiences.”
He added, “The collaboration between the central and state governments, in conjunction with private sector involvement, has the capacity to raise India’s maritime status to unparalleled heights. This will foster the resilient Indian economic growth.”
HN Aswath, Development Adviser (Ports), MoPSW shared, “Reflecting on the success of this roadshow, I am pleased to acknowledge that, MPA, Goa has reaffirmed its pivotal role in India’s maritime industry. The tides of opportunity favor Goa, destined to emerge as the nation’s maritime nexus, steering innovation, economic vigor, and seamless connectivity.”
The event underscored invigorating initiatives, and the forthcoming Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS) 2023 is poised to sculpt India’s maritime future, offering a platform to capitalize on investment prospects. This summit stands as a significant endeavor to enhance the Indian maritime economy by cultivating global and regional partnerships, while also facilitating investments.
The roadshow witnessed a distinguished array of attendees, including Shri Vikas Gaunekar, Captain of Ports, Government of India along with the maritime stakeholders from Goa, the seafarers community and other industry heads highlighting its importance as a platform for high-profile discourse and collaboration within the maritime sector. The event was followed by an extensive Q&A round with the officials.
