Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Launches Digital Modules for Maritime Efficiency

New Delhi:  Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways and AYUSH, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated two digital modules within the SagarSetu (NLP-Marine) platform, marking a significant leap forward in digitizing India’s maritime sector. Launched in the presence of Shri Shripad Y. Naik, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and senior officials, the Maritime Single Window (MSW) and Mercantile Maritime Department (MMD) modules are poised to revolutionize maritime-related processes.

Addressing the media, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the transformative vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to modernize ports, making them future-ready. The MSW module aligns with international standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and follows the processes mandated by the FAL Convention of IMO, promoting harmonization and standardization.

Key Features include

1. Maritime Single Window (MSW) Module:
   • Streamlines exchange of maritime-related information and documents.
   • Emphasizes harmonization and standardization for efficient data submission.
   • Facilitates electronic submission, processing, and communication among stakeholders.
   • Eliminates reliance on paper-based and manual processes.
   • Reduces waiting time for vessels and goods in ports by up to 40%.
2. Mercantile Maritime Department (MMD) Module:
   • Monitors the status of ships at ports efficiently.
   • Facilitates vessel inspections through the Vessel Detention function.
   • Empowers officials to update inspection reports and vessel statuses.
   • Enables notifications of vessel detentions to relevant authorities in real-time.
   • Streamlines vessel monitoring, inspection, and release processes.

Shri Shripad Y. Naik emphasized that these modules represent a leap forward in transitioning to a digital, paperless, and seamlessly connected maritime ecosystem. The MSW module, in particular, facilitates online submission of documents related to ship arrival, stay, and departure, ensuring swift approval by various authorities.

The comprehensive capabilities of the MMD module streamline vessel monitoring, inspection, and release processes, enhancing efficiency and coordination in maritime operations. These digital advancements align with the ambitious Maritime Vision 2030, emphasizing ease of doing business, operational efficiency, and technology integration in the maritime sector.

The ‘SAGAR-SETU’ mobile app, an extension of NLP-Marine launched in April 2023, offers real-time information on vessels, gate details, container freight stations, and transactions, further streamlining import and export clearances.

The Swachhta Pakhwada awards were also presented during the event, recognizing organizations’ outstanding contributions to cleanliness and sanitation initiatives within the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways. The Inland Waterways Authority of India secured the first prize, followed by the Indian Maritime University (IMU) and Visakhapatnam port receiving the second and third awards, respectively. Shri Sonowal commended the efforts of the port and its subsidiaries during the Swachhta Pakhwada, reinforcing a commitment to maintaining cleanliness standards in the maritime sector.