Importance of Inland Waterways and Global Maritime India Summit, 2023 (GMIS)

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated a roadshow on the Global Maritime India Summit, 2023 (GMIS) in Shillong. Sonowal highlighted the importance of inland waterways as an alternative mode of transportation and praised the government’s investment of Rs 5200 crores since 2014 in the sector. He emphasized that developing inland waterways will unlock economic potential and foster greater cooperation among neighboring countries.

Sonowal also discussed the government’s aim to bring Indian ports to a global standard, promoting industrialization, manufacturing, and ease of doing business. The roadshow was attended by officials and dignitaries from the trade, commerce, and maritime sectors, as well as representatives from neighboring countries Bhutan and Bangladesh.

The Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, TK Ramachandra, highlighted the geographical advantage of the North-east region and the government’s efforts to enhance connectivity and foster collaboration with Asia Pacific nations. Sanjay Bandyopadhyay, Chairman of the Inland Waterway Authority of India (IWAI), mentioned the significant growth in cargo movement on National Waterways and the effectiveness of India’s inland waterways system.

The roadshow showcased notable projects and initiatives for the comprehensive development of National Waterways, including the Jalmarg Vikas and Arth Ganga projects. The event featured technical sessions, a Ministers Session, and a dedicated session on trade to explore opportunities for economic growth and regional trade via inland waterways. The roadshow in Guwahati is part of a series of roadshows leading up to the main event of the Global Maritime India Summit, 2023.

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