President Droupadi Murmu urges the maritime sector to adapt to climate change and establish India’s presence at sea, emphasizing the need for greener practices and sustainable activities. With its significant marine position and strategic location, India’s maritime sector plays a crucial role in trade and economic growth. However, challenges such as depth restrictions and infrastructural issues need to be addressed. Investment and reforms in port infrastructure are necessary for India to fully exploit its maritime potential and contribute to global trade. The President’s speech highlights the importance of maritime development for India’s progress and prosperity.
President Droupadi Murmu has stressed the urgency for the maritime sector to adopt greener practices in the fight against climate change. With rising temperatures and sea levels posing significant challenges, the President believes that the maritime industry must take proactive measures to address these issues.
During a speech, President Murmu advised graduates to prioritize sustainable and efficient maritime activities. India’s strategic location on maritime trade routes, coupled with its significant marine position, highlights the country’s importance in trade and economic growth.
In fact, the maritime sector in India handles a staggering 95% of trade by volume and 65% by value. India’s coastal economy also supports over four million fishermen, making it the second-largest fish-producing nation globally.
Nevertheless, the maritime sector in India faces several challenges. These include depth restrictions, efficiency and competitiveness in shipbuilding, as well as infrastructural and operational hurdles in ports. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for India to fully exploit its maritime potential.
India is taking steps to address these challenges and strengthen its maritime presence. The country is preparing for its first manned deep ocean mission, called ‘Samudrayaan,’ which aims to study deep sea resources and biodiversity. Additionally, the recent Global Maritime India Summit attracted significant investments, aligning with the vision of ‘Ports for Prosperity and Ports for Progress.’
However, India still needs to address infrastructural and operational challenges in its ports to unlock its full maritime potential. The neglect of maritime development in the past has hindered India’s establishment of a strong maritime presence. Furthermore, the lack of economic and industrial resources has also posed a hindrance.
Developing India’s ports and maritime sector is of utmost importance for the country’s economic growth and global trade. Investment and reforms in port infrastructure and operations are necessary to overcome the existing challenges.
The Indian Maritime University plays a significant role in training professionals in the maritime industry. Its contribution is vital to ensuring a skilled workforce that can drive the growth of the sector.
President Murmu’s speech highlights the importance of maritime development for India’s progress and prosperity. The government’s focus on green practices and sustainable activities in the maritime sector demonstrates a commitment to combatting climate change while promoting economic growth. With concerted efforts and investments, India can harness its maritime potential and establish itself as a global maritime powerhouse.
