Odisha's CM emphasizes the potential for growth through the seas at a meeting on maritime security.

The chief minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, spoke on Wednesday about the significance of the seas, emphasizing that they are more than just boundaries on a map. He stated that they hold vast opportunities for economic growth and international cooperation. The occasion for his remarks was the 14th Multi-Agency Maritime Security Group Meeting, which was being held for the first time outside of New Delhi at the Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar.

In his address, the chief minister highlighted the importance of the Indo-Pacific region in the 21st century, with India emerging as a major maritime power on the global stage. He also commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach to Cooperative Federalism by hosting this high-level meeting in Odisha, a departure from the usual location in New Delhi. Majhi stressed the value of the nation's oceans, ports, fisheries, and Blue Economy as crucial assets that must be protected not only for national security but also for the welfare of coastal communities who rely on them for their livelihoods.

He acknowledged that maritime security goes beyond traditional law-and-order concerns and includes safeguarding critical infrastructure, promoting awareness of the maritime domain, addressing cybersecurity, disaster management, and preserving the environment. Drawing attention to Odisha's rich maritime heritage, the chief minister mentioned that the state boasts a coastline of 575 kilometers along the Bay of Bengal. He also highlighted the state's historical trade and cultural connections with Southeast Asian countries through maritime routes, a legacy that is still celebrated through the annual Bali Jatra festival.

Furthermore, Majhi pointed out that Odisha is making significant contributions to India's maritime development, with the development of a deep-sea port in Ganjam and the establishment of a shipbuilding cluster near Paradip. He reaffirmed the state government's support for progressive initiatives such as SAGAR, Act East Policy, BIMSTEC, and Coastal Security Scheme Phase-III. The chief minister stressed the importance of utilizing advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence, unmanned systems, and monitoring networks to enhance maritime security.

He also mentioned the installation of NABHMITRA transponders on fishing boats and the implementation of the Coastal Vibrant Village Program as crucial measures in strengthening maritime security. Majhi expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Odisha Police, and other agencies in safeguarding the country's maritime borders. In his address at the meeting, the National Maritime Security Coordinator and former Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta emphasized the need for a strategic framework that incorporates multiple models rather than a single model for maritime security.

He also mentioned the initiatives undertaken by the National Maritime Security Office in New Delhi to create awareness and provide guidance to all coastal states. In conclusion, the chief minister's remarks highlighted the importance of maritime security and the role of Odisha in India's maritime development. The meeting served as an opportunity for various agencies to come together and discuss ways to strengthen maritime security for the benefit of the nation.