The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): Government has launched the Sagarmala Programme with the objective of fostering port-led development, reducing logistics costs, and accelerating economic growth. The programme includes projects from various categories such as modernisation of existing ports and terminals, construction of RoRo/ RoPax& tourism jetties, enhancement of port connectivity, fishing harbours, skill development and technology centres, etc. There are 839 projects worth investment of ~Rs. 5.8 Lakh crore for implementation under the Sagarmala Programme. Out of which, 241 projects worth ~Rs. 1.22 lakh crore have been completed. These projects are being implemented by relevant central ministries, state governments, major ports, and includes projects supported under PPP, internal resources of Ports, and Equity Investments. Projects having high social impact but with no return or low Internal Rate of Return are being provided financial assistance under the Sagarmala Scheme of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Till date, a total of 171 projects worth Rs. 4525 Cr. have been supported under Sagarmala scheme for partial funding. Out of 171 projects, 55 projects have been completed.
More than 60,000 candidates have been trained under various initiatives of Sagarmala Programme, including Deen Dayal Upadhayay Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDUGKY) convergence, Multi Skill Development Centre, Alang Safety Training Institute and Centre of Excellence in Maritime and Ship Building.
The Government has engaged in collaborations with various countries through both multilateral and bilateral agreements in the maritime sector as well as joint maritime meetings. Further, the Government actively participates in partnerships with international organizations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), of which India is a member state.
The Government has taken several steps to promote coastal and cruise tourism in India including priority berthing for cruise vessel, rationalised cruise tariff, discounts to cruise ships based on volume of their calls, removal of ousting charges, single e-Landing Card, E-Visa and on-arrival visa facilities and waiving of cabotage for foreign cruise vessels etc.
Additionally, under Sagarmala Programme, the Government has undertaken development of 63 infrastructure projects at 57 locations to facilitate passenger and cargo transportation through RoPax and Passenger ferry services, of which 10 projects have already been completed and 4 locations are now operational. This improved connectivity through RoPax services has stimulated economic activities in coastal regions by facilitating unhindered movement of goods and people, which in turn has contributed to the development of local industries and tourism.