Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways

Government of India

THE
SAGARMALA POST
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2020

SPOTLIGHT EVENTS DETOUR VIEWPOINT MARITIME GLORY

 Naye Bharat Ka Naya Transport: Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
Flags off Ro-Pax ferry service between Hazira and Ghogha in Gujarat
MoPSW issues draft “Coastal Shipping Bill, 2020”
for public consultation
To boost shipbuilding in India, Ministry of Shipping amends Right of First
Refusal (ROFR) licensing conditions
40% discount on Cargo movement between India and Chabahar Port, Iran
extended for one year
Directorate General of Shipping notified as National Authority for
Ships Recycling
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issues Draft Merchant Shipping
Bill, 2020 for Public Consultation
India's IRNSS is now part of Worldwide Radio Navigation System
Draft Indian Ports Bill, 2020: issued for Public Consultation
Draft guidelines issued by Ministry to promote floating jetties for various
usages all along the Indian Coastline
Keynote address on 'Gender equality in maritime industry' at SheEo conference
First-ever luxury Cruise service ‘Ramayan Cruise Service’ to be launched
soon on the river Saryu in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Several Coastal Shipping new routes for RO-RO, RO-PAX & Ferry Services
planed by MOPSW
Ministry intends to develop World-Class Warehousing Infrastructure to
minimize Logistic Costs

Shri Mansukh Mandaviya launches “Development of Indigenous Software

solution for VTS and VTMS”
Union Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates 'Direct Port Entry Facility'
at V.O. Chidambaranar port
Shri Mansukh Mandaviya launched SCI's diamond jubilee celebrations
Union Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya unveils plaque of Ministry's new
nomenclature as the ‘MINISTRY OF PORTS, SHIPPING AND WATERWAYS'
Valedictory Ceremony by VPT During Vigilance Awareness Week
Economic Advisor Sri Arvind Chaudhary visited VPT headquarters

“sagarmala Could Create One Crore Jobs In The Next Decade”

Shipping And Maritime Trade Of The Indus People

Disclaimer: The content in the newsletter is provided for information purpose only. No legal liability or other responsibility is accepted by or on behalf of
the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways for any errors, omissions or statement in the newsletter.
From the
SECRETARY’S
DESK “Guided by the Mantra of ‘Reform, Perform & Transform’ we are determined to further
improve our rankings & scale greater economic growth”

Spearheading the Pace of Projects in The Maritime Sector Satellite System (IRNSS) was accepted as a component of the World
Wide Radio Navigation System (WWRNS) for operation in the Indian
The year 2020 has been a challenging year due to the outbreak of Ocean Region by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
COVID-19. As our country was picking up with a series of big reforms
in Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Indian Ports Association bagged three national and international
too injected monumental reforms that will transform India’s maritime awards for Indigenously built PCS 1x software for transforming digital
sector. These reforms will provide impetus to India’s Shipping service for maritime stakeholders.
industry. As India moves into another decade, exciting opportunities
Transparency and Good Governance have been the hallmark of our
await stakeholders, partners and our countrymen in the maritime
administration. That is why we asked feedback from all stakeholders
sector.
regarding Indian Ports Bill 2020 and Technical Specications For
In most of the developed economies, Ministries/Departments in the Floating Structures along inland waterways. Incorporating the best
shipping sector are also responsible for the development of Ports and suggestions in policy implementation, we will strive towards the
Waterways. Our Ministry has been doing a lot of work related to Ports bigger goal of transforming India’s maritime economy.
and Waterways and with the change in nomenclature of our ‘Ministry
Further expanding the Blue economy and giving newer dynamism to
of Shipping’ to ‘Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways’ , there has
the blue economy, Expression of Interest have been issued for
been more clarity in work done along with clarity in name. We are
Stakeholders interested in Sagarmala Seaplane Services and Product
thankful to Hon’ble Prime Minister for his foresight regarding the
Specic Warehouses/Silos. While Sagarmala Seaplane Services will
expansion of the scope of work.
be a game-changer for both aviation and tourism along coastal areas,
A series of measures were implemented in the months of November the Product specic warehouses will radically transform the supply
and December that will accelerate the development of India’s chain sector in our country by drastically reducing logistic cost and
maritime development in the future. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri saving time through cargo movement at Ports and alongside national
Narendra Modi inaugurated the Hazira-Ghogha Ro-Pax Ferry service waterways.
that will spur the economy between Surat and Saurashtra. Proving to
I am also happy to announce that the work on ‘First ever Luxury Cruise
be a great success, this service will give future precedent to such
Service’ Ramayana Cruise on the Saryu river in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
transport services along the inland waterways.
have already commenced and I am quite condent that the work will be
Envisioning ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ in the Shipping completed within the timeline.
industry and empowering our indigenous shipbuilders, Ministry
As a new year and a new decade dawn upon us, we feel great
made a historic decision about amending the Right of First
responsibility to full the dreams and visions of transforming the
Refusal(ROFR) licensing conditions regarding the charter of
maritime sector in the country. New challenges may lie ahead of us in
ships/vessels and rst order of priority will be given to the vessels
2021 but with teamwork and hardwork, we aim to remove every
built in India, agged in India and owned by Indians. This will further
obstacle in our path.
give leverage to domestic shipbuilders, boosting their
competitiveness in export markets too. I wish every reader, stakeholder, partner and our countrymen a very
Happy New Year 2021 on behalf our large Ministry of Ports, Shipping
Further enabling our international friendship and partnership with
and Waterways Family.
Iran, discount on cargo trade between India and Iran was extended for
another year. This will lead to an increase in trade volume between the
two countries with benets extended to Afghanistan as well.

The Year of 2020 was a year of extraordinary achievements for Sanjeev Ranjan
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Indian Regional Navigation Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
 NAYE BHARAT KA
NAYA TRANSPORT
Hon'ble Prime Minister
Shri Narendra Modi
Flags off Ro-Pax ferry
service between Hazira
and Ghogha in Gujarat

H
on'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
inaugurated the Ro-Pax terminal at Hazira and
agged off the Ro-Pax ferry service between Hazira
and Ghogha in Gujarat through video conferencing on
November 8th, 2020. He also interacted with the local users.
He renamed the Ministry of Shipping as the Ministry of Ports,
Shipping and Waterways.
Speaking on the occasion, Hon'ble Prime Minister said that
the people of Gujarat have received their Diwali gift. Everyone will benet from this better connectivity. He added that business will be
boosted with faster connectivity . He further said RO-PAX service between Hazira and Ghogha has made dreams come true for the people
of Saurashtra and South Gujarat, as the journey has been shortened from 10-12 hours to 3-4 hours. Additionally saving time and
expenses, he said that about 80000 passenger trains and 30000 trucks will be able to take advantage of this new service in a year.
Shri Modi also said better connectivity between Saurashtra and Surat is going to change the life of the people in these regions. He added
fruits, vegetables and milk could now easily be transported and pollution would also be reduced due to the ferry service. He thanked all
those engineers and workers who had remained courageous to develop the facility amidst a lot of challenges. He wished the people for
this new maritime connectivity established between Bhavnagar and Surat.
The Prime Minister lauded the way Gujarat has realized its maritime potential in the last two decades and gave priority to the port led
development and said it would be a matter of pride for every Gujarati. He listed the initiatives of the State Government in developing the
maritime potential of the state like drafting a Shipbuilding policy, construction of Shipbuilding Park and Specialized Terminals, promotion
of Vessel Trafc Management system and Ground-Breaking Connectivity project. He said with these initiatives the port sector has got a
new direction. He stressed that efforts were made to modernize the entire ecosystem of the coastal area in addition to developing the
physical infrastructure.

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Hon'ble Prime Minister said that Gujarat has become a gateway of prosperity due to the special efforts of the government in ensuring the
development of all types of infrastructure in the coastal area. He said over the past two decades, a unique model of integrated port has
evolved from traditional port operations in Gujarat and has developed as a benchmark today. He said the result of these efforts is that the
ports of Gujarat have emerged as major maritime centers of the country. Last year, it accounted for more than 40 percent of the country's
total maritime trade.
The Prime Minister remarked that the maritime business-related infrastructure and capacity building in Gujarat was working at its full
swing. Many of the facilities have reached their advanced stages in Gujrat like Gujarat Maritime Cluster, Gujarat Maritime University and
country's rst CNG Terminal at Bhavnagar. The upcoming Gujarat Maritime cluster in the GIFT city would be a dedicated system to
address the Ports to sea-based Logistics. He said that these clusters would help in strengthening the cooperation between the
government, industry and educational institutions and will also help in value addition in this sector.
The Prime Minister said that in the recent past India's rst Chemical Terminal was established in Dahej, where India's rst LNG terminal
was also established, now India's rst CNG terminal is going to be installed at Bhavnagar Port. Additionally facilities like Ro-Ro terminal at
Bhavnagar port, Liquid cargo terminal and a new container terminal are being prepared. He said with the addition of these new terminals,
the capacity of Bhavnagar port will increase manifold.
The Prime Minister said the government is making efforts to restart the ferry service between Ghogha-Dahej very soon. He said many
natural challenges have arisen in this project and efforts are being made to remove them through modern technology. He added Gujarat
Maritime University will be a big center for getting trained manpower and experts ready for maritime trade. Today, this University provides
opportunities for pursuing maritime law, international trade law, MBA in Maritime Management, Shipping and Logistics etc. He said apart
from the university, work is also going on to build the rst National Museum to preserve the country's maritime heritage in Lothal.
The Prime Minister said facilities like today's Ro-Pax Ferry service or Sea Plane services that was inaugurated on 31st October 2020, has
been giving a lot of momentum to water-resource based economy. He said that over the years, serious efforts have also been made to
strengthen the Blue Economy in the country. He listed the ecosystems and many schemes made over the years to help the shermen like
nancial aid to shermen for modern trollers or navigation systems that provide accurate information of weather and sea routes. He
assured that safety and prosperity of shermen is the priority of the Government. He added recently launched Pradhan Mantri Matsya
Sampada Yojana is also promoting sh related trade. Under this scheme, Rs 20 thousand crore would be spent for infrastructure related
to sheries in the coming years.
The Prime Minister said that the capacity of the ports has been increased across the nation and construction of new ports is also going on
at a faster pace. He added efforts are made to put maximum use of about 21000 km of waterway in the country, for the development of
the country. He further added that under the Sagarmala project, work has been going on for over 500 projects across the country. He said
that transportation by waterways is many times cheaper than road and railways and also causes less damage to the environment. Yet
work has been done with a holistic approach in this direction only after 2014. He said that work is going on in inland rivers across the
country, to connect many Land-locked states to the sea. He added today in the Bay of Bengal, we are developing our capabilities in the
Indian Ocean unprecedentedly. The maritime part of the country has emerged as an important part of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

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 Gujarat has increased
its sea trade potential
in past two decades:
PM

The Prime Minister renamed the Ministry of Shipping as the

Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He said in most of the
developed countries the Ministry of Shipping handles Ports and
Waterways. He added now with more clarity in name, there will
be more clarity in the work.
The Prime Minister said to strengthen the Blue Economy's stake in Aatmanirbhar Bharat, there should be a greater need to strengthen the
maritime logistics. He was concerned that the cost of carrying goods from one part of the country to another is more than other
countries. He suggested that Logistics cost within the country can be reduced by water transport. Therefore, he said that the primary
focus should be to create an ecosystem where there can be seamless movement of cargo.
Hon'ble Prime Minister added that the country has been making rapid strides in the direction of Multimodal Connectivity to reduce
logistics costs and efforts have been made to improve connectivity between road, rail, air and shipping infrastructure and also to
overcome the silos. He said Multimodal Logistics Parks are being constructed in the country. He added that Multimodal connectivity is
being developed with our neighbouring countries also. He wished that with these efforts, Logistics costs in the country will come down
and give impetus to our economy.
Hon'ble Prime Minister also urged the people to go Vocal for Local during this festive season. He insisted on buying things from small
traders, small artisans and rural folks. He said by these efforts light could be lit in the homes of the rural artisans also during Diwali.

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MoPSW issues draft
“Coastal Shipping Bill,
2020” for public
consultation
Furthering Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision for
integrating citizen participation and transparency with good
governance, Draft Coastal Shipping Bill, 2020 was issued in
October 2020 for seeking suggestions from the stakeholders
and general public. With advent of technology and maritime
innovation, India's shipping sector is evolving with a rapid pace.
In pace with the growing demand of the industry, a separate
legislation on coastal shipping was the need of the hour.
Incorporating global best practices, the draft Coastal Shipping Bill 2020 forms an integral part of transport chain and fullls the policy
requirements of or growing shipping industry.
The Ministry of Shipping has drafted a Coastal Shipping Bill, 2020 in lieu of part XIV of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. Have a brief look
at the bill
Ÿ The denition of coastal shipping and coastal waters to be expanded.
Ÿ Requirement of trading licence for Indian ag vessels for coastal trade to be done away with
Ÿ Create a competitive environment and reduce transportation costs, while giving leverage to Indian vessels for increase their share in
coastal shipping.
Ÿ Integration of coastal maritime transport with inland waterways.
Ÿ Provision for a National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan.

The draft bill is uploaded on the Ministry of Shipping's website (http://shipmin.gov.in/). Citizens can submit their suggestions and
opinions regarding the draft bill to coastal shipping 2020@gmail.com latest by 06.11.2020.

To boost shipbuilding in India,

Ministry of Shipping amends
Right of First Refusal (ROFR)
licensing conditions
Acting upon Hon'ble Prime Minister fervent appeal of 'Make in India', ROFR
(Right of First Refusal) licensing conditions for chartering of
vessels/ships through tender process for all types of requirements was
reviewed and amended.
Under ROFR's amended guidelines, ships built in India, flagged in India
and owned by Indians will be given the first priority in chartering of vessels
during the tendering process.

5
 Right of First Refusal (ROFR) would be exerted in the following manner:
Ÿ Indian built, Indian flagged and Indian owned
Ÿ Foreign built, Indian flagged and Indian owned
Ÿ Indian built, foreign flagged and foreign owned

Government of India has introduced several measures to incentivize shipbuilding by providing additional market access and
business support to ships built in India.
The revised ROFR licensing guidelines is a giant step towards #AatmanirbharShipping and will give a strategic thrust to indigenous
Ship building industries and contribute towards long-term economic growth of India.

40% discount on Cargo

movement between India
and Chabahar Port, Iran
extended for one year
India-Iran relations have spanned over a millennia. Both the countries share several common features in their language, culture and
traditions.
During the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to Tehran in May 2016, the contract on Chabahar was signed which, inter-alia,
comprises investment of $85 million for equipping the port. The contract also comprises of provision of credit of approximately USD 150
million for the development of the 1st Phase of Shahid Beheshti port at Chabahar.
The Trilateral Transit Agreement (Chabahar Agreement) was signed by the three transport ministers of India, Iran and Afghanistan in the
presence of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, President Dr. Rouhani and President Ashraf Ghani in May 2016.
After detailed discussions in the 2nd Trilateral meeting, decision was taken for international transit and transport through Chabahar Port.
Taking this partnership forward, Ministry extended the current concessional rate of 40% discount for coastal movement of cargo and
vessel related charges, for a period of further one year to clients for cargo being handled at Jawaharlal Nehru Port and Deendayal Port
from/to Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar, Iran.
The aim of the extension of discount period is to promote the trade through Shahid Beheshti Port of Chabahar, Iran. It would give a boost to
coastal movement of cargo being handled at Jawaharlal Nehru Port and Deendayal Port from/to Shahid Beheshti Port.

Directorate General of
Shipping notified as
National Authority for
Ships Recycling
In the month of October 2020, the Central Government notified
the 'Directorate General of Shipping' as National Authority for
Recycling of Ships under the section 3 of the Recycling of
Ships Act, 2019.

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Under Ship Recycling Act, 2019, India has acceded to Hong Kong Convention for Ship Recycling under International Maritime
Organization (IMO). DG Shipping is a representative of India in IMO and all the conventions of IMO are being enforced by DG Shipping.
As an apex body, DG Shipping is authorized to administer, supervise and monitor all activities relating to Ship Recycling. He is required to
look after the sustainable development of Ship Recycling industry, monitor any compliances as per prevalent environment-friendly
norms and ensure health & safety measures for the stakeholders working in the ship recycling industry.
DG Shipping will be the final authority for various approvals required by the Ship-Recycling yard owners and State Governments.
National Authority of Ship Recycling will be set up in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The location of the office will benefit the Ship Recycling yard
owners situated in Alang, Gujarat which is home of Asia's largest ship breaking and ship recycling industry in the world.

Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issued

Draft Merchant Shipping Bill, 2020 for Public
Consultation
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issued a draft of the Merchant Shipping Bill,
2020 for public consultation. It will repeal and replace the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958
(Act No. 44 of 1958) and the Coasting Vessels Act, 1838 (Act No. 19 of 1838).
The Merchant Shipping Bill 2020 drafted with the primary aim of promoting the growth of
Indian shipping industry by incorporating the best practices adopted by other advanced
countries like the U.S., Japan, U.K., Singapore and Australia.
All up-to-date IMO Conventions/protocols are adopted in the bill. Adequate provisions
have been incorporated to ensure the safety and security of vessels, safety of life at sea,
prevent marine pollution, provide for maritime liabilities and compensations, and ensure
comprehensive adoption of India's obligations under International Conventions.
Benefits Envisaged:
Ÿ Promoting ease of doing business
Ÿ Embracing digital technology
Ÿ Increasing tonnage and Vessel as a Tradable Asset
Ÿ India as a Bankable Shipping Jurisdiction & avoidance of situations leading to wreck -
Ÿ Welfare of Indian seafarers
Ÿ Strengthening adjudication and predictability of claims
Ÿ India as an Active Enforcement

Transforming the maritime scenario, India will definitely surge ahead towards a fully developed maritime economy with these initiatives.

India's IRNSS is now part of Worldwide Radio

Navigation System
The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) of International Maritime Organization during its meeting (102nd session) held from 4 to 11
November 2020 approved the recognition of the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) as a component of the World-Wide
Radio Navigation System for operation in the Indian Ocean Region.
IRNSS is an independent regional navigation satellite system developed by India. It is designed to provide accurate position information
service to assist in the navigation of ships in Indian Ocean waters.

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This is a significant achievement for Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
(MoPSW), Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) and Indian Space Research
Organization (ISRO) towards “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.
Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) under MoPSW had initiated matter with the
IMO. Details of the tests was carried out on merchant ships with regards to the
accuracy of the system and had been included in the report prepared by ISRO
which was submitted to IMO for consideration.
This approval has enabled merchant vessels to use IRNSS for obtaining position
information similar to GPS and GLONASS to assist in the navigation of ships in
ocean waters within the area covered by 50°N latitude, 55°E longitude, 5°S
latitude and 110°E longitude (approximately up to 1500 km from Indian boundary.

Draft Indian Ports Bill,

2020: issued for Public
Consultation
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways circulated draft of Indian
Ports Bill 2020 for public consultation which will repeal and replace the
Indian Ports Act, 1908
The draft Indian Ports Bill, 2020 will be a game changer in the Indian
maritime sector, specially for bringing more investments
The proposed Bill will provide measures to facilitate conservation of
ports, considering the prevalent situation with respect to the high number of non-operational ports.
It shall further ensure greater investment in the Indian maritime and ports sector through the creation of improved, comprehensive
regulatory frameworks for the creation of new ports and management of existing ports.
The Bill also seeks to, inter alia, create an enabling environment for the growth and sustained development of the ports sector in India
through the following broad methods:
Enhancing “Ease of Doing Business', it will provide greater impetus to a self-reliant domestic investment climate in the maritime sector,
towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives of the Government.

Draft guidelines issued by Ministry to promote floating jetties

for various usages all along the Indian Coastline
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has compiled the draft guidelines for technical
specifications of floating structures with a vision to set up and deploy world-class floating
infrastructure all along the coastline and issued the same for public consultation.
Setting up of floating structures is much faster as compared to conventional jetties. Usually,
floating structures can be built in 6-8 months as compared to 24 months for conventional
structures.
The issuing of draft guidelines and seeking public feedback has been a progressive step in the
same direction, which will benefit and prove a milestone for the upliftment of the coastal
community in the long run.

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 Advantages of Floating Structures
Its environmental impact is minimal.
Expansions are easily feasible due to modular construction techniques.
It is easily transportable in case of reconfiguring of the port.
It provides constant freeboard between jetties and boats.

Keynote address on 'Gender equality in maritime

industry' at SheEo conference
It is my proud privilege and honour to share my views at prestigious Maritime
SheEO Conference, as a keynote speaker.
Maritime industry offers great employment opportunities for male and female
seafarers alike. However, employment equality has been a long-lasting
problem in this industry across the globe. It is one of the very few industries,
which has the lowest number of women workforce. Women seafarers are less
than 2% of seafarers worldwide and as per latest EU data, the gender pay gap
also stands at around 16%.
Maritime SheEO Conference is undoubtedly a welcome step to promote gender
equality in maritime industry. It will embolden the women fraternity across the globe to pursue and achieve their dreams in this field.
I express my following suggestions for further deliberations and contemplation at this dignified forum:
Ÿ All leading educational institutions should incorporate policies to help women understand and know about maritime careers in a better
way to enhance awareness about career opportunities in this field.
Ÿ All reputed Magazines and newsletters should be used as a medium to promote and highlight seafaring as a potential career for females.

Ÿ Parents should motivate and encourage their daughters who are willing to take up jobs in shipping related sectors.

Ÿ All organisations should take initiatives to allow for an equal representation of women and offer them equal opportunities in the
maritime industry to push more women in this industry.
Ÿ Society must have the common recognition of the importance of the utilisation of the women work force.

Ÿ Gender sensitisation programs should be conducted regularly.

Ÿ Private shipping companies should offer enhanced job security by providing them a stable source of income and a planned retired life.

The key discriminatory issues of women seafarers like health, pay disparity as compared to their male counterparts, bullying,
harassment and unacceptable behaviour of colleagues or managers, and pregnancy test before going on board need to be pondered
upon with an open mind at this forum to evolve radical measures supporting women's welfare.
Nevertheless, there are no doubts in my mind that women seafarers are as capable as their male counterparts are; and for sustainable
development, participation of women in shipping, both at sea and onshore, is equally important.
I am proud to apprise the majestic gathering that the Indian Government is aggressively encouraging women seafarers to take up their
career in this challenging field. Indian women seafarers' number is increasing exponentially across the globe.
I am delighted to highlight names of Ms Sanjam Sahi Gupta,Director,Sitara Shipping Ltd, Mrs H K Joshi, Chairperson & MD, Shipping
Corporation of India, Captain Radhika Menon, Master of the Oil Tanker & Ms Reshma Nilofar Naha,the first woman river pilot in the world
who have been passionately pursuing and promoting gender equality and boosting diversity within the maritime sector.These are among
many other Indian women who are making waves in the maritime industry globally.
I convey my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the organisers of this conference for considering me as a keynote speaker.

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 First-ever luxury Cruise service ‘Ramayan Cruise
Service’ to be launched soon on the river Saryu in
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

3D DESIGN (ARTISTIC IMPRESSION) OF PROPOSED CRUISE VESSEL

Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways chaired a review meeting for the implementation of first-ever luxury
Cruise service on the Saryu river (Ghagra/National Waterways-40) in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.
It aims to provide mesmerizing experience to devotees with one-of-its-kind spiritual journeys while cruising through the famous ghats of
the holy river Saryu.
Equipped with all luxury comforts and facilities along with all essential safety and security features at par with the global standard. The
interiors of the cruise and the boarding point will be based on the theme of Ramcharitmanas. The fully air-conditioned 80-seater cruise
will have large glass windows for experiencing the scenic beauty of Ghats. The cruise will be equipped with kitchen and pantry facilities
for the comfort of the tourists. The cruise contains bio toilets and hybrid engines system for the 'zero effect' on environment.
Tourists will be taken to the 'Ramcharitmanas Tour', of 1 hour - 1 hour 30 mins duration, featuring an exclusive video film of 45-60
minutes duration, based on Ramcharitmanas by Goswami Tulsidas, covering the period from the birth of Lord Ram to his Rajyabhishek.
The entire tour will cover the approximately 15-16 Km distance.There will be several activities and selfie points inspired by different
episodes of Ramayan. The tour will be followed by Saryu Aarti, in which every member will be able to actively participate.
The 'Ramayan Cruise Tour' will not only attract a large number of tourists but it will also generate direct and indirect employment
opportunities in the region. Ministry of ports, Shipping and Waterways will provide all necessary infrastructural support for the smooth
operation of the cruise services

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Several Coastal Shipping new routes for RO-RO,
RO-PAX & Ferry Services planed by MOPSW
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has been working continuously for the promotion of Coastal Shipping under
Sagarmala Programme.
MoPSW has identified Domestic locations namely Hazira, Okha, Somnath Temple, DIU, PIPAVAV, Dahej, Mumbai/JNPT, Jamnagar,
Kochi, Ghogha, Goa, Mundra and Mandvi and 6 International routes, connecting 4 international destinations namely Chattogram
(Bangladesh), Seychelles (East Africa) Madagascar (East Africa) and Jaffna (Sri Lanka) from Indian major coastal port towns for the
commencement of ferry services through inland waterways.
MoPSW, through Sagarmala Development Company Limited (SDCL), is desirous of facilitating the companies to operate RO-RO, RO-
PAX and Ferry services on various routes across the nation and provide the required support to make the project operational.
MoPSW has recently successfully implemented one of such ferry routes by deploying RoPAX vessel ferry service between Hazira and
Ghogha. This ferry service has reduced the distance between Ghogha and Hazira from 370 Km to 90 Km and travel time from 10 to 12 hours
to about 5 hours. This will result in huge savings of fuel (approx. 9000 litres per day)
To replicate the success of the above business model, MoPSW now encourages the private operator to identify the routes, which offers
potential to commence the RO-RO, RO-PAX ferry service based on the localized demand to promote the supplementary and sustainable
mode of the transportation through coastal/inland water.

Benefits Envisaged:
Ÿ Create a supplementary mode of transportation, which will not only be beneficial for the daily commuters, tourists'
movement and cargo transportation but also helpful in reducing carbon footprint by shifting to environment-friendly mode of
transportation from rail and road.
Ÿ Provide impetus to the tourism industry

Ÿ Create job opportunities in the coastal regions

Ÿ Saving in terms of both cost and time for the users

Ÿ Decongest road and rail networks

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Ministry intends to develop World-Class Warehousing
Infrastructure to minimize Logistic Costs
Products Specific Warehouses/Silos to come up at Ports and alongside the National Waterways

Ministry of Ports, Shipping and

Waterways (MoPSW) intends to
create Product Specific
Warehouses/Silos at various Ports
(including both Major and Non-Major
Ports), Multi Modal Logistics Parks
located near Port area and alongside
the National Waterways.The purpose
of development of this infrastructure
is to reduce the storage losses,
minimize logistic costs and facilitate
distribution of cargo in the hinterland.
MoPSW is targeting to develop the
product specific Warehouses/Silos
at ports for products such as Cement
Silos, Liquid Tanks, Chemicals
Tanks, Cold/Refrigerated Storage,
Electronics Product Storage,
Pharmaceutical Storage, Auto Spares Parts & Components Storage or any other suggested products.
While the big players have their own warehouses and storage spaces, the smaller players find it difficult to get their products specific
storage silos at various locations. The development of these world-class warehousing spaces will give a big push, specially to such small
logistics players for their 'Ease of Doing Business' with better planning and inventory management.
The smaller players would have the option of paying nominal fees to make use of this world-class infrastructure. This option will
immensely benefit them, as presently their loaded trucks keep waiting, to find appropriate storage near ports quite often. In turn, it will
reduce the losses as compared to the traditional warehousing and provide more robust and cost-effective supply chain.
For implementation of these envisaged projects, Ministry is ascertaining the interest of the various Indian companies/developers
engaged in the business of Logistics Operations/FTWZ Operation/Manufacturers/Freight Forwarders/ ICD/CFS operations/ Inland
Waterways Terminal Operations/Port Operations and Infrastructure Developers including Start-ups and comprehending the support
required by them for viability of the projects under PPP model.
It is the endeavor of the Ministry that various permissions/approvals from regulatory and statutory Government authorities are facilitated
expeditiously through Sagarmala Development Company Ltd. Moreover, if warranted, the Ministry will facilitate equity in the projects in
SPV framework in order to smoothly implement these world-class infrastructure projects.
Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (I/C) Shri Mansukh Mandaviya said “we are planning to create world-class Product
Specific Agglomeration Centre on 'Pay and Use Model' which will immensely benefit the small traders & logistics players. It would result
into transporting their cargoes through the cheapest mode of transportation, which is through sea or waterways. Hence, these
Agglomeration Centers will drastically cut down the country's overall logistics cost and give a boost to export-import trade through
coastal shipping. It would also create employment opportunities in the coastal areas”

12
Shri Mansukh Mandaviya
launches “Development of
Indigenous Software solution
for VTS and VTMS”
Vessel Trafc Management System is a service implemented by a
competent authority designed to improve the safety and efciency of
Vessel Trafc and detect environmental hazardsA VTS Software for
waterways was launched by Hon'ble Minister Shri Mansukh
Mandaviya"This would encourage 'Made In India' VTS/VTMS to 'Make for
The World', Shri Mandaviya said.MoPSW has sanctioned an amount of
Rs. 10 Crore to IIT, Chennai for development of indigenous VTS software

Union Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates

'Direct Port Entry Facility' at V.O. Chidambaranar port
Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways (I/C), Shri Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the 'Direct Port Entry (DPE) facility'
of V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust by unveiling the e-plaque.
While addressing the inauguration ceremony through video conference, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya said that this is a noteworthy step
towards reducing logistics cost and increasing the velocity of the cargo. DPE will help in increasing Ease of Doing Business for the
exporters, as the facility will bring efficiency and reduce dwell time, lower tariff cost and improve the competitiveness of shipper in the
international trade.
The state-of-the-art Direct Port Entry (DPE) facility would enable direct movement of containers from factories, without intermediate
handling at any CFS, thus facilitating the shippers to Gate-In their factory stuffed exports directly to the Container Terminal on 24x7 basis.
It can handle 18000 TEUs per month.
Senior officials of the Ministry included Shri T. K. Ramachandran, Chairman, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust, Shri Arun Kumar
Shrivastava, Managing Director, Central Warehousing Corporation and port officials were present in the virtual inauguration.

13
Shri Mansukh Mandaviya
launched SCI's diamond
jubilee celebrations
Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways (I/C) and
Chemical & Fertilizers Shri Mansukh Mandaviya had virtually launched
Shipping Corporation of India's diamond jubilee celebrations on the
occasion of their foundation day.
Shri Mandaviya unveiled the logo of diamond jubilee celebrations of SCI.
The minister also awarded the winners of various competitions,
organized as the part of the celebration.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Mandaviya congratulated SCI for
completing its 59 glorious years and entering into 60th year. The
minister also praised the financial performance of the company and
said that SCI grows means India grows. Shri Mandaviya said as the
company's foundation day coincides with the Gandhi Jayanti, the company must move towards becoming Aatmanirbhar as Gandhiji
always emphasized on. The minister also wished the company and its employees to achieve higher goals in the coming years.
Dr. Sanjeev Ranjan, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Mrs. H.K. Joshi, CMD, SCI, senior officials from the Ministry,
current and retired employees of SCI along with their family members were present on the occasion.

Union Minister Shri

Mansukh Mandaviya
unveils plaque of
Ministry's new
nomenclature as the
‘MINISTRY OF
PORTS,
SHIPPING AND
WATERWAYS'
Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Chemicals & Fertilizers Shri Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the plaque
of Ministry's new nomenclature on November 12, 2020
Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced the renaming of Ministry of Shipping while addressing the inaugural ceremony of
Ro-Pax ferry service between Hazira and Ghogha in Gujarat on 8 November 2020 through video-conferencing
Shri Narendra Modi had said “Now this Ministry will be known as Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. It is being expanded. In
most of the developed economies, the Shipping Ministry is also responsible for Ports and Waterways. In India, the Shipping Ministry has
been doing a lot of work related to Ports and Waterways. Now with more clarity in the name, more clarity will also come in the work.”
Ministry swung into action to complete all the related formalities within two working days and the official notification of the name change

14
was published in the Gazette of India on 10th November 2020.
During the formal unveiling of plaque ceremony today, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya stated that it is indeed a matter of pride that with Prime
Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision, the country is moving ahead with a holistic and long-term approach of multi-modal connectivity. He
added that he is indeed grateful to Prime Minister for his foresight regarding the expansion of the scope of work as far as ports, shipping
and waterways are concerned.
Shri Mansukh Mandaviya stated that “With the changed name, the Ministry is going to put extra focus on the development of Waterways
and coastal shipping. Around 1400 km of waterways have already been fully developed and additional 1000 km is being developed on
priority for which DPR/feasibility study has been completed. We are also focussing for creation of a Port Grid, encompassing various
smaller ports like fisheries port, agriculture port and mineral port etc so that port development and port-led development takes place in
the country.”
Shri Sanjeev Ranjan, Secretary & Shri Sanjay Bandopadhyaya, Addl Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Dr. Amita
Prasad, Chairman, IWAI, Shri Amitabh Kumar, DG Shipping, Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Chairman, IPA, along with chairmen of all the major
ports and senior officials of the Ministry attended the ceremony through video conferencing.

Valedictory Ceremony
by VPT During Vigilance
Awareness Week
Visakhapatnam Port Trust VPT and Dredging Corporation
of India (DCIL) jointly organized the Valedictory function
during Vigilance Awareness Week at Sambamurthy
Auditorium on 02.11.2020. Sri K. Rama Mohana Rao,
Chairman, VPT presided as the Chief guest along with
Smt. G. Srijana, GVMC Commissioner, Guest of Honour and Sri J. Pradeep Kumar, CVO, VPT along with other HODs, officers and
staff of VPT and DCI were also present.
Prizes were given by the Hon’ble dignitaries to the winners of various contests held during the Awareness Week from 27th Nov. to 2nd Oct. 2020.

Economic Advisor
Sri Arvind
Chaudhary visited
VPT headquarters
Sri Arvind Chaudhary, Economic Advisor, MoS,
New Delhi has visited Visakhapatnam Port Trust
on an official tour from 20.11.2020 to
22.11.2020 and conducted review meeting on
the below issues with

15
 “SAGARMALA COULD
CREATE ONE CRORE JOBS
IN THE NEXT DECADE”
In his interview with THE WEEK, Hon’ble Minister
spoke about a range of initiatives under Ministry of
Ports, Shipping and Waterways towards transforming
India's maritime sector & strengthening Hon’ble
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of
AatmanirbharBharat

Can you tell us more about the upcoming maritime You have called the creation of a National Port Grid,
museum complex in Lothal? under the Indian Ports Bill, 2020, a game-changer?
The museum, one of the ambitious projects of the prime On our entire coastline, there are 204 ports but only 69 are functional
minister, would display India's rich maritime culture that goes at present. Under the National Port Grid, we are trying to bolster
back to Harappan times. The Gujarat government recently structured growth and sustained development of ports. It would be a
transferred close to 400 acres in Saragwala village, close to the game-changer [as it would] cut down logistical costs of India's
Harappan site [of Lothal]. It is our endeavour to highlight India's exports. The average logistical cost [of trade] through sea is 9 per
rich maritime heritage and navigational knowledge, combined cent worldwide; in India it is 14 per cent. The National Port Grid
with modern technologies. We are trying to re-create the Lothal [would reduce costs by] encompassing various smaller ports like
civilisation through this museum. The National Maritime sheries, agriculture and mineral ports. It will also bring in more
Heritage Complex would encompass all aspects of history, investments. There are 505 ongoing projects on port modernisation,
[including] the present trends of boat technologies and port connectivity, port-led industrialisation and coastal community
shipbuilding, and the futuristic vision in the maritime domain. development, at a total cost of Rs3,56,648 crore.
The concept design for NMHC was approved in February 2020.
Currently, the selection of a design and construction contractor What are the new reforms being planned for the
is in progress, and we are hoping to start construction by March maritime sector?
(2021). We aim to complete it in two years. Though the initial
[The] Indian Ports Bill, the Merchant Shipping Bill [and] the Inland
budget is Rs500 crore, it might be more as we are trying to get
Waterways Bill. The Aids to Navigation Bill (concerning lighthouses)
the best in the world.
is also expected to be presented in the upcoming Parliament session.
All these legislations aim [to improve] ease of doing business.
You have said that the Sagarmala Programme will
harness India's 7,500km coastline. Could you There is also a focus on ferry services. There is a new
elaborate? plan for such a service on the Sarayu. When will this be
It is the ministry's agship programme to promote port-led operational?
development by harnessing India's 7,500km coastline and
potential navigable waterways. The projects [under the The Ramayan cruise tour is going to be the first luxury cruise service
programme] could create one crore new jobs, including 40 lakh on the Sarayu. We are also trying to create similar religious circuits
direct jobs, in the next 10 years. The vision of the programme is to on the Ganga. For that, we will rope in private players.
reduce logistical costs and time for the movement of EXIM It has been priority to harness the navigable waterways for ferry
(export-import) and domestic cargo. [The] development of connectivity through RoRo (roll-on/roll-off, for vehicles) and RoPax
industrial capacities near the coast is a step in this direction. Port (roll-on/roll-off, with passengers) vessels. The ministry facilitates
development, port-led industrialisation, port connectivity and port ferry operations by creating necessary infrastructure and
community development are the four pillars we are working on. navigational channels. We have recently floated an expression of

16
interest for such operations [in] Hazira, Pipavav, Okha, Portugal will provide its expertise on setting up of the maritime
Mandovi, Mundra, Kandla, Dahej, Mumbai, Kochi, Paradip, museum at Lothal.
Visakhapatnam and Chattogram (Bangladesh).
What is the status of the Jal Marg Vikas Project,
The new Merchant Shipping Bill aims to stop ships
country's biggest inland waterways project?
that threaten the sea and the environment. How
This project will connect Varanasi to Haldia (West Bengal) and will be
does it address the growing issue of pirates taking
the biggest waterways project.
Indian seafarers hostage?
Multi-model terminals have already been made in Haldia, Sahibganj
The bill has been drafted to promote the Indian shipping industry and Benaras. From Haldia to Sahibganj, 600km of waterway is
by incorporating best practices adopted by advanced countries operational. Close to 1,000 cargo vessels are plying in the stretch.
like the US, Japan, the UK, Singapore and Australia. We are We are expecting the entire project to be completed in the next two
following all protocols of the International Maritime Organization, years. We are eyeing to push for coastal movement and coastal
of which India is a member. transportation as it will improve road traffic, and is cost effective,
Adequate provisions have been incorporated to ensure safety eco-friendly and accident free. A stretch of 1,400km of waterway has
and security of vessels and safety of life at sea. The bill aims to been fully developed and an additional 1,000km of waterway are
bring in measures for the prevention and containment of pollution being developed on a priority basis. Goods like foodgrains, fertilisers
at par with the best practices prevalent in other jurisdictions, and and minerals that are transported through subsided railway tracks
goes a step ahead to include pollution of air resulting from ships could move through inland waterways.
operating at sea. Specically, pursuing prosecution, securing
conviction and establishing traceability have raised various There is also a need to preserve the marine
difculties. Therefore, the bill proposes various measures for environment. What is your ministry doing in this
monitoring and collection of evidence, and for admissibility of regard?
such evidence in [court] proceedings. This allows India to
actively pursue incidents of pollution—within its jurisdiction and Marine pollution is a global challenge which is being taken very
on the high seas—that might effect its marine environment. seriously by our ministry. We have recently introduced various bills,
which will address this issue in totality. The recently introduced
Indian Ports Bill 2020 and Merchant Shipping Bill 2020 have several
So far, maritime heritage has only been focused on international maritime conventions specifying pollution control
trade. But the ministry has now chosen to focus on standards, port reception facilities and port traffic flow
the coastal communities, and especially on arrangements. The up-to-date IMO conventions and protocols, and
fishing? their adoption into domestic law and framing subordinate legislation
will address the issue of marine pollution. All ports and terminals are
The development and welfare of coastal communities is one of going to be prescribed by the central government under these
the key focus areas of the Sagarmala Programme. Coastal proposed acts to ensure prevention of pollution at sea, so that marine
community development has been a thrust area and we are environment is preserved.
constantly focused on implementing various projects
connected with coastal communities. The ministry has signed
Women have been part of the story of the sea. You have
an MoU with the ministry of skill development to impart skill
training and to upgrade skills of the coastal community. Most of talked about bringing in gender balance in the sphere
those trained are employed at various ports. of maritime. How does the ministry aim to do so?
I have no doubt that women seafarers are as capable as their male
The ministry has signed MoU with the government counterparts, and for sustainable development, participation of
of Portugal. Could you elaborate? women in shipping, both at sea and onshore, is equally important.
The Indian Government is aggressively encouraging women
We have had relations with Portugal from the time of Vasco de
seafarers to take up their career in this challenging field. The number
Gama. The draft content for 14 galleries for the national
of Indian women seafarers is increasing exponentially across the
maritime museum has been prepared and the MoU between
globe. The Indian Maritime University is giving special fee
Indian government and Ministry of Defence, Republic of
concession to women seafarers.
Por tugal was signed in February for cooperation on
development of the maritime museum. The government of

17
 SHIPPING AND MARITIME
TRADE OF THE INDUS PEOPLE
India's maritime history dates back to several millenia. Oldest text like Rig Veda, Pali literature, Sangam
literature, old Egyptian hagiography and Assyrian texts have thrown light on India's maritime history in detail.
Megasthenes, Greek Historian and Ambassador of Seleucus Nicater in Chandragupta Maurya and Herodotus
have written in brief about India's sea borne trade links. Greek and Latin navigators have shared memoirs of
exploring the Indian Ocean.
The term 'Lothal' in Gujarati means 'Mound of the dead'. Lothal was once a thriving ancient trade port from
Sindh to Saurashtra in Gujarat and was one of the predominant towns during the Harappan Civilization (3300
BCE-1300 BCE). Lothal has played in the history of the subcontinent, having connected the region to glorious
and admittedly more popular civilizations westward, for instance Mesopotamia and Egypt. It is said to be
inhabited circa 3700 BCE and shared sea-borne trade business with Mesopotamia and Graeco-Roman
empires and Egypt.

18
Lothal is located between the
Sabarmati river and its tributary
Bhogavo, in the Saurasthra region.
The sea is, today, over 19 km away
from Lothal, but at one time, boats
from the Gulf of Cambay could have
sailed right up to the spot.
In the year 1954, Lothal and several
other Harappan sites were
discovered through the joint efforts
of Archaeological Survey Of India
and Archaeological
Departmentment of the erstwhile
Saurashtra government. Many
excavations was carried out at
Lothal between 1955 and 1962,
after which the site as well as the
site museum were set up for
tourists.
Archaeological evidences prove in
the direction that Lothal had been a
busy industrial centre that had imported pure copper and produced artefacts such as bronze celts, chisels, spearheads and ornaments.
Beads and shells of ne quality were produced primarily for trade and export purposes.
The most distinctive feature of Lothal is the dockyard, which is located at the eastern edge of the site. The basin of the dockyard has been
enclosed by a wall of burnt bricks. The structure of the dockyard is magnicent and glorious as compared to the time period. Adequate
provisions were maintained by the people at that time for maintaining a regular level of water by means of a sluice gate and a spill channel.
A mud-brick platform located at the western embankment could have been used for loaded and unloaded goods.
At the foot of the mound at Lothal, ood-damaged peripheral wall of mud-bricks can be seen near the corner of the warehouse. The
warehouse was an important asset for the ancient people of Lothal as it is believed to serve as a storage house that may have been the
part of the economy of the town apart from sea-borne trade. Originally it contained as much as 64 cubical blocks, but oods destroyed all
except few of the blocks even before the site was abandoned by Indus people.
Archaeologists have found many clay labels in this area that have conrmed the view that the wooden superstructure in the warehouse,
could have housed goods that were either being exported or imported. These sealings, some of which are on display in the site museum,
are testament to the commercial nature of production of goods in Lothal, a crucial historical fact.
One is simply amazed at the level of artisanal skill of the terracotta ornaments, beads, seal and sealing replicas, shell, ivory, copper and
bronze objects, gurines representing animals and humans, gorgeous painted pottery, as well as fascinating objects recovered from
burials in the cemetery site. One of the most fascinating nds in Lothal during excavation was a burial of two people together in a brick-
lined grave; a replica of this can also be seen in the museum.
Regular Floods is believed to cause the decline of Lothal- 'THE SEA TRADING SOCIETY'. Gradually, the town began to shrink and diseases
were quite rampant. Ship had stopped coming back to the dock and led to a decline of mercantile activities.
The downward spiral of trade activities, ood and disease led people to migrate to other nearby regions. Thus, one of the ancient trade
town in India eventually came to an end.
Efforts have been made by the erstwhile Government to restore the port city.

19
(A Newsletter By Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways)