In a remarkable prelude to an event that promises to shape the future of global maritime discourse, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), in partnership with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), successfully launched the curtain-raiser for ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’ at ITC Maurya, New Delhi today. The evening was marked by the unveiling of the promotional movie and logo for the dialogue by the Union Minister of MoPSW, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, alongside the Minister of State for MoPSW, Shri Shantanu Thakur, and several other eminent dignitaries.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized, “Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue represents MoPSW’s unwavering commitment to unlocking the vast potential of oceans while ensuring their sustainable and equitable development. This conference is a significant step towards fostering global cooperation and innovative solutions for a thriving maritime future.”

Shri Shantanu Thakur, who delivered the keynote address, echoed the sentiment, stating, “At the heart of this initiative lies the recognition that a flourishing ocean economy depends on strong partnerships. Sagarmanthan will be an enabling platform for many such partnerships and alliances, bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise to craft a comprehensive and forward-looking framework for ocean governance. We will work collaboratively with global policymakers, scholars, and the industry to identify high-impact ideas that can galvanize the blue economy. Our goal is to align India’s maritime priorities with the broader objectives of the international community, ensuring that our contributions to ocean governance are both meaningful and far-reaching. By doing so, we can ensure that the benefits of a thriving ocean economy are shared equitably among all nations, particularly those in the Global South."

The event was further enriched by the presence of distinguished personalities such as Shri Samir Saran, President of the Observer Research Foundation; Shri P. Kumaran, OSD (ER & DPA), Ministry of External Affairs, India; Shri Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council, India; Smt. Malini V. Shankar, Vice Chancellor of the Indian Maritime University; and Shri Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, India.

Scheduled to be held in Mumbai on 18th and 19th November 2024, the inaugural edition of ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’ is expected to witness participation from representatives of 75-100 countries, with ministerial representation from over 10 countries. This pioneering platform will delve into four key thematic pillars critical for shaping the future of India’s maritime domains: new frontiers of connectivity, infrastructure and development; partnerships for progress and blue growth; green and blue perspectives on sustainability, technology and innovation, and finally – coasts and communities, and the social impact of maritime governance.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the maritime sector for India’s future, Shri Sonowal added, “These initiatives are aimed at improving the efficiency and performance of our ports, strengthening shipping and national waterways, enabling large-scale coastal employment and capacity building, and unlocking and leveraging the full potential of the blue economy.”

As India continues its imminent rise as a global economic power, the maritime sector’s role in international collaboration, trade, and security becomes increasingly critical. The realisation of India’s economic ambitions relies heavily on the strength and resilience of its maritime sector, which plays a crucial role in shaping global narratives, maintaining resilient supply chains, and securing vital maritime partnerships.

Shri Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, India, laid emphasis on this point, saying, “The oceans are important; many of us do not realise that they account for 30% of greenhouse emissions. We also do not realise that almost 40% of the global population is living around the oceans. Their livelihood is dependent upon the oceans.” He also appreciated this effort for MoPSW and ORF, under the stewardship of Minister Sonowal, for envisioning such a conference and undertaking the responsibility to bring it to life.

At the event representatives of Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Greece, Italy, Georgia, Norway, Sri Lanka & many more were present.

This curtain-raiser has set a high-octane and engaging tone for the upcoming discussions on maritime governance and ocean sustainability. It underscores India’s commitment to leading global maritime conversations and ensuring that the oceans continue to be a source of prosperity and sustainability for all.

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