President Commends Indian Maritime University Convocation

President’s Visit to Indian Maritime University

Smt Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, made a special appearance at the 8th convocation of the Indian Maritime University in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, on October 27, 2023. During her speech, she shed light on India’s remarkable maritime potential and the vital role it plays in the nation’s economic development.

India’s Maritime Strengths

In her address, the President emphasized India’s unique position as a maritime nation. She pointed out that India boasts a vast coastline spanning 7,500 kilometers and is home to 1,382 offshore islands. India also possesses around 14,500 kilometers of potentially navigable waterways and occupies a strategic location on key maritime trade routes. These factors, she explained, make India’s maritime sector a crucial player in trade and economic growth.

The Importance of the Maritime Sector

The President underscored the significant role played by India’s maritime sector. She revealed that a substantial part of the country’s trade—95 percent by volume and 65 percent by value—is conducted through maritime transport. This sector also sustains the livelihoods of over 4 million fishermen, making India the second largest fish-producing nation worldwide, with a fleet of approximately 250,000 fishing boats.

Addressing Challenges

While recognizing the potential of the maritime sector, the President acknowledged several challenges that need to be overcome. She noted that depth restrictions often lead to container ship cargo being diverted to nearby foreign ports. Additionally, she stressed the need for higher standards of efficiency and competitiveness in the merchant and civilian shipbuilding industry. Indian ports, she said, must aim to match global benchmarks for operational efficiency and turnaround times while addressing infrastructural and operational challenges.

The Sagarmala Programme

The President also discussed the significance of the Sagarmala program, representing a transition from “port development” to “port-led development.” She explained that this initiative aims to transform India’s maritime sector further and boost economic growth.

Climate Change and the Maritime Sector

The President recognized climate change as one of the most pressing challenges of our time. She pointed out that rising temperatures and sea levels pose significant risks, especially to vulnerable communities reliant on the maritime sector. She emphasized the need for the maritime industry to be adaptive, proactive, and agile in addressing climate change. She stressed the importance of sustainable and efficient maritime activities, including shipping, as well as adopting greener practices to protect our oceans and ecosystem.

Indian Maritime University’s Success and Potential

The President commended the Indian Maritime University for its achievements. Despite being one of the youngest Central Universities, it has already demonstrated excellence in maritime education, research, and training. She expressed hope that the university would continue to broaden its expertise into related fields, including maritime law, ocean governance, and marine sciences, cementing its status as a globally acclaimed center of excellence.

Conclusion: Indian Maritime University

In summary, the President’s visit to the Indian Maritime University underscored the importance of India’s maritime sector, highlighted its potential, and stressed the need to address challenges while promoting sustainability and efficiency in the industry. She also praised the university’s accomplishments and encouraged further growth and diversification in maritime education and research.

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