Mumbai: The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) is establishing the India Maritime Centre (IMC), a cornerstone initiative under the Maritime India Vision 2030. Recently, a meeting was chaired by TK Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, in the presence of the Additional Secretary and Joint Secretary of Sagarmala, along with representatives from key maritime associations such as SAI, FFFAI, INSA, IPPTA, CSLA, CFSAI, and IPA. During this meeting, they finalised the constitution, procedures, documentation, and necessary infrastructure for the IMC's operationalisation.

The IMC aims to provide a unified platform for the Indian maritime industry, acting as a think tank for policy formulation and industry recommendations. Its primary goals include strengthening India's participation in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and global maritime forums, creating a robust domestic maritime sector through a unified and synchronised approach, conducting flagship events to build a strong global brand for the Indian maritime cluster, providing expert analysis and recommendations for sustainable growth, establishing platforms for industry stakeholders to collaborate and network, and creating a pool of funds to support the industry, including startups.

"The establishment of the India Maritime Centre marks a significant milestone in MoPSW's efforts to bolster the maritime sector in India. The IMC will serve as a central platform for collaboration, innovation, and policy advocacy, ensuring sustainable growth and enhancing India's position in the global maritime community. MoPSW is committed to making the IMC a world-class institution that drives the future of India's maritime industry," said the Secretary of MoPSW.

The Task Force for the IMC was formed in January 2024 and divided into subgroups focused on Awareness and Outreach, Infrastructure and Operationalisation, and Procedure and Documentation. To date, two meetings of the entire Task Force and three subgroup meetings have been conducted at the Ministry.

For Infrastructure and Operationalisation, Mumbai, Maharashtra, has been finalised as the location for the IMC. A building at the IMU Campus in need of renovation has been identified, and space has been requested from SCI at the MTI Campus, Powai (~2000 sq. ft. proposed), with in-principle approval provided by SCI. Discussions regarding furnishing requirements with SCI are ongoing, and the preparation of an organogram is in progress.

Regarding Procedure and Documentation, plans are in place to set up the Centre as a Section 8 Company. The collation of documents/formalities for registration is in progress, and the preparation of the governing structure, functions, and fee structure is underway.

The IMC is poised to be a pivotal institution in advancing India's maritime interests both domestically and internationally. By fostering collaboration, driving policy advocacy, and providing expert analysis, the IMC will play a crucial role in shaping the future of India's maritime sector. /BI