Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Launches ‘Sagar Aankalan’ Guidelines at Stakeholders Meet

New Delhi:  In a significant move towards enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of Indian seaports, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, launched the ‘Sagar Aankalan’ guidelines during a stakeholders meet aimed at implementing the Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed at the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 (GMIS 2023).

The “Sagar Aankalan” guidelines for the National Benchmarking of Indian Ports Performance have been introduced to achieve key objectives:

1. Mapping and benchmarking of Indian Port’s logistics performance and efficiency.
2. Harmonization of standards, definitions, and performance with global benchmarks.
3. Improving competitiveness, efficiency, and overall performance of the port sector, focusing on improvement, productivity, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

This strategic initiative aligns with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision announced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during the GMIS 2023, emphasizing sustainable growth, technological advancements, and enhancing maritime infrastructure.

The Stakeholders Meet focused on converting the MoUs signed at GMIS 2023 into actionable plans for swift implementation. Participants engaged in productive discussions, sharing valuable insights and recommendations to overcome challenges and facilitate the implementation of the MoUs.

Shri Sonowal highlighted the significance of the collaborative effort, urging stakeholders to work together to turn these agreements into reality and propel the Indian maritime sector to new heights. He emphasized that each stakeholder plays a crucial role in the journey towards making India a ‘Viksit Bharat’ during Amrit Kaal.

During the meeting, port representatives provided updates on the progress of the signed MOUs, detailing achievements and challenges encountered. This exchange of views allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the MOUs’ impact and potential areas for improvement, fostering transparency and accountability in the execution of the agreements.

GMIS 2023, one of the largest maritime summits globally, witnessed a record-breaking investment commitment of ₹10 lakh crore. The signing of 360 MoUs, with an investment commitment of ₹8.35 lakh crore, underscored the immense potential of India’s maritime sector. The Ministry remains committed to translating the objectives outlined in the MoUs into tangible outcomes, driving innovation, economic growth, and reinforcing India’s position as a global maritime leader.

By fostering collaboration, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and embracing sustainable practices, India is poised to unlock the full potential of its maritime sector, driving inclusive growth and prosperity for all stakeholders.