The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): In an event that marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance and maritime innovation, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) & AYUSH, virtually inaugurated the ‘Ocean Grace,’ a 60T bollard pull tug, and a Medical Mobile Unit (MMU), on the 2nd of March, 2024. ‘Ocean Grace’ stands out as the first make-in-India Advanced Tractor Tug Design and Support Tug (ASTDS), a testament to the nation’s burgeoning capabilities in maritime engineering and manufacturing. This initiative, undertaken by Cochin Shipyard Limited under the MoPSW, embodies the essence of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative championed by Prime Minister Modi, signaling a move towards self-sufficiency in sectors critical to the nation’s progress and sovereignty.
The event was graced by the virtual presence of notable dignitaries including Shripad Naik, Union Minister of State for MoPSW and Tourism; Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State for MoPSW; and T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, among others. It highlighted Paradip Port’s exemplary achievements in EXIM traffic management, reflecting the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing efficiency and excellence in maritime operations.
The ‘Ocean Grace’ tug, built at a cost of Rs. 45 crores, is equipped with state-of-the-art NIGATA main engines and a Power Z-Peller ZP Propulsion engine, ensuring optimal efficiency, reliability, and seamless navigation. This marks a leap forward in maritime infrastructure development, setting new standards for port operations in India. Moreover, the launch of the Medical Mobile Unit as part of the port’s corporate social responsibility initiative underscores a commitment to community welfare, offering a wide range of healthcare services to the underprivileged communities in the vicinity of Paradip and its surrounding areas.
The Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) aims to revolutionize the sector by converting at least 50% of all tugs into Green Tugs by 2030, with an ambitious goal to have Green Tugs operating at all major ports. This initiative is part of a broader vision under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which focuses on decarbonization and the development of cutting-edge technology vessels, including electric water taxis, hybrid electric Ro-Ro ferries, and LNG electric cargo carriers, among others. The comprehensive plan not only demonstrates India’s commitment to sustainable maritime practices but also positions the nation as a leader in the global effort to combat climate change.
The Sagarmala Programme in Odisha is another highlight, with 53 projects worth approximately Rs. 54,500 Crores aimed at infrastructural development along the coastal areas. This initiative has already seen the completion of 21 projects, with several more in various stages of implementation, promising a transformative impact on the local economy and community welfare.
Paradip Port’s expansion, particularly through the Western Dock project, is set to enhance its capacity significantly, reflecting the port’s central role in India’s coastal shipping and its commitment to providing economical and efficient port services nationwide. With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, these initiatives collectively represent a giant leap towards realizing India’s vision of becoming a self-reliant maritime powerhouse, setting new benchmarks in the global maritime industry.