Commitment to Enhance Maritime Sector and Ports: PM Modi
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Synopsis
On April 5, PM Modi emphasized the ongoing commitment of the government to enhance India's maritime sector and ports. This focus is vital for driving national progress and prosperity, as highlighted during his address for National Maritime Day.
Key Takeaways
- Government's commitment to enhance the maritime sector.
- Doubling of cargo handling capacity in major ports.
- New infrastructure for better port connectivity.
- Approval of the 'Coastal Shipping Bill' to regulate coastal trade.
- Focus on developing inland waterways.
New Delhi, April 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Saturday that the government will persist in bolstering the nation's maritime sector and ports, which are essential for fostering India's advancement and prosperity.
In his address for National Maritime Day, PM Modi remarked, “We honor India’s illustrious maritime legacy and the significant contributions of this sector to nation-building.”
The Prime Minister noted that India was historically recognized as a formidable sea power, yet the maritime sector faced neglect post-independence.
Nevertheless, over the past decade, New India has reached numerous new heights in the maritime domain, with the government actively striving to enhance the country's maritime ecosystem.
PM Modi emphasized that the cargo handling capability of the nation’s major ports has been doubled in the last 10 years, alongside the construction of thousands of kilometers of new roads to boost port connectivity.
He further elaborated that the government’s principle of “ports for prosperity and ports for progress” has initiated significant transformations in the maritime industry. Additionally, the new motto of “ports for productivity” has been adopted to advance maritime infrastructure development.
PM Modi indicated that the government is making further advancements in coastal shipping. This announcement coincided with the approval of the 'Coastal Shipping Bill' by the Lok Sabha on Thursday.
The Bill aims to regulate vessels involved in trade within Indian coastal waters, consolidate and amend existing laws regarding coastal shipping, promote coastal trade, and encourage domestic involvement. It also ensures that India has a coastal fleet owned and operated by its citizens for national security and commercial requirements.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that the development of the country’s inland waterways is part of the broader strategy to enhance India’s maritime sector.
PM Modi highlighted that historical evidence shows that when India’s maritime sector is robust, both the nation and the world benefit. With this critical insight, the government is meticulously working to fortify the country's maritime landscape.
