Mr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Shipping, while assuring of the necessary support from the government, called on the maritime industry to turn the Covid-19 crisis into an opportunity.
Addressing an interactive session with industry stakeholders via a webinar organised by FICCI, Mr Mandaviya said that the maritime associations along with FICCI should jointly prepare a comprehensive strategy and mechanism for the Ministry to take decisive action.
“We are ready to help but it is the industry that has to turn the crisis into opportunity. Industry should come forward with plans and government will provide necessary support. I want shipbuilding industry not just to survive but also make considerable progress,” he said.
He further highlighted that currently Indian ports are working at 70-80% capacity but transportation of bulk cargo via road is still a concern which the government is working to resolve. “Port is ready to work at full capacity, but the concern for CFS, ICD might continue for some more time but they will be solved soon,” he said.
The Minister said the government is giving thrust to Indian shipbuilding and increasing Indian fleet size. He also urged the industry to come forward to develop a detailed strategy for this. Highlighting the steps taken by the government during the lockdown, Mr Mandaviya assured that the government will continue to ensure proper functioning of the ports, identifying and clearing the bottlenecks, and providing necessary support to the industry.
While applauding the decision-making at the government, Capt BVJK Sharma, Chairman-Shipping, FICCI National Committee on Infrastructure, and Director-Ports (CEO Office), Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd, highlighted that many recommendations submitted by FICCI have been accepted by the government. “We would like to thank the government for a very proactive role in ensuring smooth running of port and shipping operations during the current crisis,” he added.
The webinar saw the active participation of key stakeholders from shipping lines, port and terminal operators, supply chain and logistics, inland waterways, shipowners, manufacturers/repairers, freight forwarders, shipyard owners, vessel manufacturers and operators, Custom agents, amongst others.
