Mumbai, Dec 9 (NationPress) The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized on Tuesday that India's maritime sector is evolving its focus from enhancing infrastructure and embracing digital advancements to prioritizing green and sustainable shipping under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During the inauguration of the 3rd Session of the Council of the International Organisation for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA), he stated that PM Modi's leadership has elevated India from being merely a significant maritime nation to a reliable contributor to international standards, safety, and collaboration.

Additionally, the Union Minister unveiled the Digital Ticketing Portal for Lighthouse Tourism, representing a significant advancement in digital visitor services, enhancing accessibility to 75 lighthouse locations across the nation.

He acknowledged that all lighthouses in India are now powered by solar energy, and tourism at these sites has experienced considerable growth over the last decade.

The five-day IALA council, organized by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships within the ministry, runs from December 8 to 12, gathering 42 IALA council members, industry groups, 11 observers, IALA Secretariat delegates, and representatives from over 30 countries.

Sonowal remarked that hosting the council signifies India's increasing influence in shaping the future of global maritime standards.

He underscored the importance of global collaboration as technology transforms maritime navigation, including innovations like autonomous shipping, satellite-enabled systems, and digital vessel management.

"With advancements such as autonomous shipping, satellite-based navigation, and digitalization rapidly progressing, the role of IALA in the global harmonization of navigation standards is becoming increasingly vital. India stands resolutely alongside IALA in the quest for safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime navigation," the minister stated.

He further indicated that navigation aids are fundamental to maritime safety, and India is committed to investing in modern AtoN systems, digital navigation innovations, and capacity-building for developing maritime nations.

The minister also mentioned reforms outlined in the Maritime India Vision 2030 and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which aim to bolster port infrastructure, enhance shipbuilding capabilities, improve logistics efficiency, advocate for green shipping, and accelerate digital transformation.