The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) is progressing towards the establishment of the India Maritime Centre (IMC), a pivotal initiative under the Maritime India Vision 2030. This landmark project aims to fortify India’s maritime sector, creating a unified platform for industry stakeholders and enhancing India’s participation in global maritime forums.
A recent meeting chaired by an official from MoPSW, in the presence of the Additional Secretary and Joint Secretary of Sagarmala, along with representatives from key maritime associations such as SAI, FFFAI, INSA, IPPTA, CSLA, CFSAI, and IPA, has solidified the operational framework for the IMC. The meeting finalised the constitution, procedures, documentation, and necessary infrastructure for the centre’s operationalisation. The IMC is envisaged as a think tank and policy advocacy body, aiming to provide expert analysis and recommendations for sustainable growth. It will host flagship events to build a robust global brand for the Indian maritime cluster, facilitate collaboration among industry stakeholders, and create a pool of funds to support the industry, including startups. A primary goal of the IMC is to strengthen India’s participation in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other global maritime forums.
“The establishment of the India Maritime Centre marks a significant milestone in MoPSW’s efforts to bolster the maritime sector in India. The IMC will serve as a central platform for collaboration, innovation, and policy advocacy, ensuring sustainable growth and enhancing India’s position in the global maritime community. MoPSW is committed to making the IMC a world-class institution that drives the future of India’s maritime industry,” stated an official of MoPSW. The Task Force for the IMC, formed in January 2024, has been divided into subgroups focusing on Awareness and Outreach, Infrastructure and Operationalisation, and Procedure and Documentation. To date, two meetings of the entire Task Force and three subgroup meetings have been conducted at the Ministry.
Mumbai, Maharashtra, has been finalised as the location for the IMC. A building at the IMU Campus, in need of renovation, has been identified, and space has been requested from the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) at the MTI Campus, Powai, with approximately 2000 square feet proposed. In-principle approval has been provided by SCI, and discussions regarding furnishing requirements are ongoing. Additionally, the preparation of an organogram is in progress.
Regarding Procedure and Documentation, the IMC is set to be established as a Section 8 Company. The collation of documents for registration is underway, and the preparation of the governing structure, functions, and fee structure is in progress. The India Maritime Centre is poised to be a cornerstone institution in advancing India’s maritime interests both domestically and internationally. By fostering collaboration, driving policy advocacy, and providing expert analysis, the IMC will play a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s maritime sector, aligning with the broader goals of the Maritime India Vision 2030.
