Andhra Pradesh government on Wednesday approved the Maritime Policy 2024 with a target to achieve at least one port ranked among the top 20 global ports and to attain 20% of total cargo handled by all Indian Ports by 2047.
In the orders issued on Wednesday approving the Policy, Industries and Investment (Ports) Department Secretary S. Suresh Kumar said the policy targets to maintain an optimal Port utilisation rate of 75% by 2030 and train 5,000 professionals by 2028 through the establishment of Maritime University and Skill Development Centres across the State.
The policy aims at developing safer and sustainable non-major ports and to introduce a single-window clearance system for port operations and various other maritime activities.
In the orders, Mr. Suresh Kumar said the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Policy 2024 envisions an integrated holistic approach, covering port development, port-led industrialisation, shipbuilding clusters, logistics infrastructure, maritime services and skill development with environmental sustainability.
“The policy lays down the principles for achieving the Maritime Vision of the State; “Empowering a prosperous maritime future of Andhra Pradesh, where sustainable maritime infrastructure growth, coastal development, and efficient logistics unite to drive competitiveness and economic growth by leveraging its long coastline, locational and natural advantage.”
The policy is formulated in a way that it fosters a conducive environment for achieving the vision by establishing A.P. as India’s Maritime Gateway by 2030, where world class infrastructure, efficient logistics and sustainable growth converge to propel competitiveness. It would also develop a thriving maritime industry contributing significantly to the economy of the State and create substantial employment opportunities.
“The policy would also promote sustainable and inclusive maritime development that benefits all stakeholders and citizens including coastal communities,’‘ the orders said.
The policy also set out a comprehensive framework with four pillars for driving growth and sustainability in the maritime sector. They include Ports and Terminal Development to enhance cargo handling capacity and boosting EXIM trade, Port Proximal Area Development for enabling an ecosystem of industrial clusters, logistics centres, and urban development attracting private investment and leveraging public-private partnerships under Port Proximal Area Development, Shipyard and Cluster Development by establishing modern shipyards and repair facilities, and attracting investment in shipbuilding and ship-repair sector, and Allied Maritime Activities with the development of navigable waterways to facilitate safe and efficient inland water transport, designing industry-relevant curricula and training programmes to equip the workforce skills, and investing in research and training initiatives focused on innovative maritime technologies and best practices.
The policy came into immediate effect and will be operational until it is reviewed and revised. The Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board will be the Nodal agency for the implementation of Andhra Pradesh Maritime Policy 2024.
Published – December 11, 2024 09:47 pm IST
