13 ministries roped in for maritime summit

The shipping ministry is leaving no stone unturned to make the maiden Maritime India Summit a success. In addition to port trusts and maritime boards, the ministry is involving 13 other ministries to attract private investment from India and overseas.

The three-day summit is expected to be held in Mumbai from February 14, 2016.

The government wants to showcase at least 100 projects with investment opportunities like port-led development, shipbuilding, coastal and cruise shipping, specialised cargo handling and port mechanisation. "We have identified 13 ministries, besides port trusts and maritime boards, to attract investments in the maritime sector. We have written to all these ministries regarding our expectation and have asked them to respond in a time-bound manner," said an official in the shipping ministry.

The ministry of defence has been asked to provide inputs on building warships. "They have been asked to share projects for building shipyards," the official added. The coal ministry has been asked to identify the projects related to coal transportation. These will also be part of the Sagarmala programme. The ministry of power will identify projects near ports, besides assisting in simplifying power availability for existing projects. The ministry of external affairs will help in engaging with ministries and shipping organisations of other countries. In addition, it will leverage foreign missions to reach out to investors. The ministry of information and broadcasting has been asked to support in media campaigns and engage channel partners for the summit.

Port trusts and state maritime boards have been asked to submit details of at least 15 investible projects and to provide suggestions on investment areas, technology, education and joint ventures.

The shipping ministry is undertaking roadshows in London, Singapore, South Korea, the Netherlands and Dubai. It is also planning to hold road shows in Chennai, Kolkata, Vishakhapatnam, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Agartala.