The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) in collaboration with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) orchestrated a landmark two-day conference in Kerala on April 23rd and 24th.
The conference, titled ‘Challenges and Prospective Solutions in Inland Waterways and Shipbuilding’, served as a pivotal platform for various state departments, industry experts, and stakeholders to converge and address critical issues within the maritime sector. With a focus on decarbonising the maritime industry, the conference convened four comprehensive sessions aimed at tackling challenges in inland water transport and shipbuilding. Participants actively engaged in discourse, sharing insights into the obstacles faced within the sector and proposing viable interventions to expedite the cargo modal shift to waterways while bolstering domestic shipbuilding endeavours.
Key discussions encompassed the enhancement of regulatory frameworks, intensification of research and development initiatives, and advocacy for the global promotion of the ‘MAKV 2047’ initiative to attract international investment in Indian shipbuilding. Attendees were encouraged to submit post-conference submissions detailing their challenges, proposed interventions, and policy suggestions for further deliberation and implementation. India, with aspirations to emerge as one of the top five shipbuilding nations by 2047, strategically prioritises the expansion of ship ownership and tonnage in a sustainable manner. This concerted effort aims to unlock significant commercial opportunities within the shipbuilding sector, contributing to the nation’s economic growth and maritime prowess. The conference underscored India’s commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development within the maritime domain. By bringing together diverse stakeholders and fostering dialogue, MoPSW, CSL, and IWAI are spearheading efforts to propel India’s maritime sector towards greater resilience, efficiency, and global competitiveness.
