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NDTV
4 days ago
- Business
- NDTV
Investment, Port Digitisation Discussed In India-Japan Meet On Maritime Ties
Investment, port digitisation and employment of Indian seafarers by Japan were among the topics discussed by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal in a bilateral meeting with Terada Yoshimichi, Japan's Vice Minister for International Affairs, and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport & Tourism (MLITT). Monday's meeting between the two countries also included discussions on green port initiatives, increase in research and development cooperation, upskilling human resources, and using sustainable technologies, disaster-resilient infrastructure, and enhanced connectivity to enable Andaman and Nicobar and Lakswadeep islands to be converted into Smart Islands. Acknowledging the rich expertise of Japan in developing island territories, Mr Sonowal said, "Japan's expertise in this area is highly valued. We see scope for joint work in the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands, particularly in deploying renewable energy, smart mobility systems, and digital infrastructure. These initiatives will further our shared commitment to ecological conservation and regional maritime security." The meeting also discussed about increasing partnership between Indian and Japanese shipyards, including greenfield investment, such as Imabari Shipbuilding in Andhra Pradesh. Opportunities for co-development of ports and maritime industrial clusters were also gauged for mutual cooperation. Mr Sonowal expressed India's interest in leading Japanese shipbuilding companies such as Imabari Shipbuilding, JMUC, Kanagawa Dockyard, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to explore joint ventures and collaborative arrangements with Indian yards. "Japan's expertise in shipbuilding and ship repair is well recognised, and I see great scope for collaboration in this area. We also invite Japan's Big Three maritime companies-NYK Line, MOL, and K Line-to explore joint ventures and investment opportunities in India's growing maritime sector. With our strong bilateral relationship, India's growing maritime industry present a unique opportunity for Japanese shipyards to invest in India in shipbuilding. Collaboration on port digitisation and green port initiatives will further strengthen the resilience and sustainability of our maritime logistics network," said Mr Sonowal. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Sonowal said, "Relations between India and Japan have a long history rooted in spiritual affinity and strong cultural and civilisational ties. Our collaboration under the Quad framework and the India-Japan-Australia Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) reflects our shared commitment to strengthening regional maritime security and economic integration. India appreciates Japan's leadership in key initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT). As India moves ahead to transform its maritime sector under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is advancing port infrastructure, green shipping, shipbuilding and digitalisation under 'Maritime India Vision 2030' and 'Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047'. India seeks Japan's participation in these transformative initiatives." Mr Yoshimichi expressed that India and Japan have very intimate relationship. Japan has been engaged in railway infrastructure development with India but now it is "very interested in maritime sector", he said. Prospects of mutual collaboration in shipbuilding and training of seafarers were discussed and considered positively. Emphasising the need to deepen bilateral ties in maritime training and development, as well as cooperation in research and development, both sides agreed to further strengthen collaboration in the maritime sector, especially on sustainable maritime technologies and next-generation ship design. Mr Sonowal evinced India's interest for a Memorandum of Understanding for a framework to avail promising avenues for collaboration with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Indian universities and public agencies.
Time of India
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal leads Tiranga Yatra in Assam, lauds Operation Sindoor's success
Guwahati: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal , participated in the Tiranga Yatra at Chowkidingee in Dibrugarh as well as at Manav Kalyan in Tinsukia to honour the extraordinary success of Operation Sindoor . The event was a mark of respect and gratitude toward the Indian Armed Forces and Prime Minister Narendra Modi 's decisive leadership during the high-stakes, supremely effective counterterrorism mission . Sonowal said, 'The unprecedented success of Operation Sindoor is a testament to the valour, strength, and indomitable courage of our Armed Forces. Our capabilities have once again ensured a decisive and massive victory over Pakistan and terror hubs. It also sends a stern message to terrorists and to Pakistan who harbour them — India will not tolerate any terror threat or act and will get a swift response in case of any misadventure. The strong and bold leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again proved that this is a New India — capable of responding with power and precision to any conspiracy against the nation.' Sonowal further added, 'It gives me immense pleasure and pride to join at the 'Tiranga Yatra' today along with scores of people in both Dibrugarh and Tinsukia. It's a moment of inspiration and commitment for all of us as we extend our warmest greetings to the Armed Forces for their complete and successful route of Pak-sponsored terror hubs and resounding response to Pakistan's nefarious design. We stand united to confront any adversity with resilience. Under the capable leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India has emerged as a nation that will give a befitting response to every act of aggression.' Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
Hindustan Times
22-04-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Selfie spots, rose gold ceilings and 10,000 passengers a day: India's largest cruise terminal opens in Mumbai
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (Mospw), Sarbananda Sonowal, flagged off Cruise Operations from the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT), India's largest cruise terminal, on Monday. The Union Minister also inaugurated the renovated Fire Memorial at Victoria Docks as well as renovated two heritage buildings -- Fort House, Ballard Estate, and Evelyn House at Colaba. Sonowal also inaugurated the Sagar Upvan garden along with the Shore to Ship Electric Supply under the Green Port Initiative. The MICT, developed as per Cruise Bharat Mission, was developed as per latest global standards and is expected to take a pioneering role in developing cruise tourism in India. Spread over a built up area of more than 4,15,000 Square Feet, the MICT is developed at Ballard Pier. MICT is India's largest world class cruise terminal. Equipped with 72 check-in and Immigration counters spreading over an area of 2,07,000 Square Feet on the first two floors (G 1), while the other two floors (2 3) are developed as Commercial Floors. The newly inaugurated MICT is designed to handle 1 million passengers every year, with an approximate 10,000 passengers per day. It can also handle 5 ships simultaneously, with an 11-meter draft and up to 300 meters in length. At the parking space, more than 300 vehicles can be parked simultaneously: Speaking on the commencement of Cruise Service from MICT, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, said, 'The maritime history of Mumbai is rich and an integral part of our civilisation. As a coastal hub, it has served the nation handsomely with its bustling coastal business. It is only logical that we work towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modiji's vision of 'Bharat becoming a global cruise hub through its state-of-the-art infrastructure.' Today, Mumbai, with its longstanding repute as a major maritime hub in the world, commenced Cruise Operations from the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal, providing passengers with modern amenities for a better and safer experience. This adds to our existing top-class international terminals at Visakhapatnam and Chennai. To celebrate the heroic contribution of Mumbai Port Fire Services personnel, the newly renovated Fire Memorial at Victoria Docks celebrates their distinctive service to the nation.' MICT has been designed with a wavy ceiling reflecting the maritime identity with functional and minimalist architecture. MICT blends modern design with Mumbai's maritime spirit--featuring fluid architecture, rose gold accents, and a sweeping ceiling. From heritage-inspired entry to sleek interiors with wave seating, selfie points, and maritime plaques, it offers a serene yet vibrant gateway to India's emerging global cruise hub. MICT will provide an enhanced passenger experience and position Mumbai as one of the major hubs for cruise tourism hubs. The total investment in the MICT project has been Rs556 crores. Elaborating on the vision of the Cruise Bharat Mission, the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, 'PM Narendra Modi ji's call for port-led prosperity has redefined our maritime ambitions. We also give momentum to the 'Cruise Bharat Mission'--our resolve to make Bharat is one of the top cruise destinations in the world. The mission embraces three pillars--Ocean & Harbour Cruises, River and Inland Cruises, and Island & Lighthouse Cruises. With a comprehensive strategy that combines digital ease, circuit integration, environmental sustainability, and global partnerships, this is India's cruise awakening --bold, inclusive, and future-ready. Under the visionary leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, India's maritime sector has witnessed an astonishing transformation. It is the story of an India that believes in its potential and invests in its people.' The renovated Fire Memorial at Victoria Docks, which was inaugurated by the Minister, is a solemn tribute to the Mumbai Port Fire Services personnel for their distinguished service to the nation. The fire memorial is renovated with a "Golden Tears" theme as the tragic event which golden bricks were blown in the surrounding area of the Port. To promote heritage and tourism, facade lighting was inaugurated at two iconic heritage buildings of MbPA - Port House at Ballard Estate and Evelyn House at Colaba, adding to the aesthetic and historical appeal of the city's legacy. In a boost to the Green Port Initiative, the Shore to Ship Electric Supply at MbPA. This will help Tug boats and Coast Guard vessels, reduce emissions, bring in operational efficiency and reduce noise pollution. MbPA's commitment to environmental sustainability and modernisation of port infrastructure, providing shore-based electric power, will significantly enhance energy efficiency and operational cleanliness. The rejuvenated Sagar Upvan Garden at Colaba were also inaugurated today. This was done with support from Tata Trusts, the MbPA undertook extensive repair and enhancement work were undertaken, including the restoration of the compound wall, construction of facilities for gardeners, along with a 25000 KLD Sewage Treatment Plant. Rich with more than 500 varieties of plants, it has scenic views of the Arabian Sea as well as Sassoon Docks. It has lush green lawns, sea-facing benches, and pathways ideal for jogging and walking, along with a living laboratory for botany students and nature enthusiasts. The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also attended MoU Signing ceremony for the development of Infrastructure projects with an investment worth more than Rs5700 crores at Vadhavan Port here today. The agreements were signed for the development of a terminal for handling container, bulk, and liquid cargo with an investment of Rs4200 crores, development of a dedicated terminal for handling bulk and liquid cargo with an investment of Rs1,000 crores and development of a liquid cargo jetty and a tank farm with a capacity of 3,00,000 CBM for handling liquefied chemicals and related products with an investment of Rs500 crores. Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, 'Our dynamic leader, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji has given us a vision of transforming Vadhavan Port to become one of the Top 10 Global ports. As the Vadhavan Port project is likely to power up India's current capacity by more than three times, this is all all-weather, green field deep draft major port that is going to act as a game changer for not only India's maritime sector, but also enable regional trade. As India is poised to become a Viksit Bharat by 2047, this port is likely to act as a major growth multiplier. In this regard, the MoUs signed today add towards the creation of infrastructure and capacity of the Vadhavan port and help us take another step towards realising the vision of PM Narendra Modi ji.' The inauguration of fuel dispensing infrastructure -- including two HSD units, one gasoline unit, and a fast electric vehicle (EV) charger -- further bolsters the port's push towards sustainable mobility within the operational area. The event also included the formal handover of key land assets. A charge certificate of the plot at Malet Bundar was handed over to JNPA for its corporate building. Another plot at Reay Road was transferred to the Hare Krishna Mission for social and community activities. Additionally, the E Shed at Mumbai Port was handed over to M/s. Ruchi India Logistics to strengthen port-led logistics operations. The Cruise Bharat Mission has set ambitious yet achievable goals like Development of 10 international sea cruise terminals, creation of 100 river cruise terminals, Launch of 5 marinas along our coast, Seamless integration of more than 5000 km of waterways, Aiming for 1 million sea cruise passengers and 1.5 million river cruise passengers by 2029, creation of over 400 thousand direct and indirect jobs across the cruise value chain. Since 2014, the government under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi has led to the transformation of the maritime sector. The cargo handled at the major port surged from 556 MMT in 2014 to 854 MMT in 2024-25, while coastal cargo grew by 119%. The inland water cargo rose from 6.89 MMT to 133 MMT--a leap of over 1800%. The cruise passengers increased from 85,000 in 2014 to 4.71 lakh today, a phenomenal growth of 454%.
