PANAJI: The Goa government on Monday announced plans to form a State Maritime Board, which will serve as a dedicated platform to streamline policies and facilitate collaboration between industry and the government.
State River Navigation Department Minister Subhash Phal Desai, while addressing the Confederation of Indian Industry’s conference India’s Shipbuilding Roadmap Towards Maritime Amrit Kal Vision 2047, said that the Goa government is in the process of forming the Goa Maritime Board.
Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur joined the inaugural session online.
Arjun Chowgule, Chairman of CII Goa State Council, Swati Salgaoncar, Immediate Past Chairperson of CII Western Region, and others were present on the occasion.
“The much-needed institution will coordinate and accelerate shipbuilding and maritime activity in the state,” Phal Desai said.
He added that the Board will serve as a platform to streamline policies, facilitate collaboration between industry and government, promote maritime tourism, develop coastal infrastructure, and support traditional fishing communities.
“Our vision is for maritime development to benefit not just large industries but also small enterprises and local communities,” the minister said.
Phal Desai further stated that the government’s aim is that when young Indians think of a maritime career, they should think of Goa.
At the same time, he stressed that the state government is committed to protecting Goa’s environment.
“Green ship design, low-emission fuels, waste reduction, and sustainable coastal management will be essential,” he said.
Phal Desai noted that the global shipping industry is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, with stricter international regulations on emissions and fuel standards.
“That is why we will prioritise green shipbuilding capabilities with zero-waste manufacturing processes in our shipyards,” he added.
