Minister Sri Jena pleads for maritime infrastructure development and establishment of maritime institute in Odisha

Bhubaneswar, :Shri Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, Minister, Commerce & Transport and Steel & Mines sought
Centre’s support and cooperation for development of ports, maritime infrastructure and
establishment of a world class maritime institute or university in Odisha. Sri Jena participated at the
20th Maritime State Development Council under Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways,
Government of India at Goa, reaffirming Odisha’s commitment to the development of its maritime
sector in line with India’s broader maritime vision, and called for full cooperation from the Union
Government and all stakeholders.
Minister Sri Jena emphasized the state’s commitment to transforming its maritime
infrastructure. Outlining the importance of sustainability in the maritime sector Sri Jena in his
address put forth demands for the State before the Ministry. He said that Odisha is aligning its
initiatives with the Government of India’s Harit Nauka Guidelines, including the introduction of a 20-
seater solar-electric boat in Chilika Lake. The state also plans to retrofit 2,696 registered boats into
solar electric hybrid boats to reduce emissions and promote green fuels.
Sri Jena also drew the attention of Ministry for the development of a Major Port, Cruise
Terminal and Marina to leverage Odisha’s 480 km coastline and enhance tourism and maritime
connectivity along the eastern coast. He also proposed for the development of fishing harbours,
jetties and sought assistance for shifting to green fuels for inland vessels. He also presented proposal
for establishment of a world class State-of-the-Art maritime institute or university in the State to
prepare skilled human resources.
Ministers from the member States and senior officers of the Department participated in the
meeting. Smt. Usha Padhy, Principal Secretary, Commerce and Transport Department, Govt. of
Odisha was also present.