Odisha's Maritime Ambition: New Rules and Partnerships for IMW 2025

Odisha is gearing up for India Maritime Week 2025 with significant policy announcements. The state will introduce new inland vessel rules and sign key partnerships. A long-term vision for maritime development will be outlined in a White Paper. The initiatives aim to boost infrastructure, tourism, and position Odisha as a maritime leader.

Key Points: Odisha Unveils Inland Vessel Rules 2025 for India Maritime Week

  • State to formally unveil the new Odisha Inland Vessel Rules, 2025 during the event
  • Strategic MoUs to be signed with IPA, PPA, IPRCL, and IWAI
  • A White Paper on the Odisha Maritime Perspective Plan will be unveiled
  • Initiatives to build a future-ready maritime workforce will be launched
2 min read

Odisha prepares for IMW 2025 with new maritime policies and strategic partnerships

Odisha prepares for India Maritime Week 2025 with new Inland Vessel Rules, strategic MoUs, and a White Paper to boost maritime infrastructure and tourism.

"Odisha, with its rich maritime history and 480-km coastline, is strategically positioned to become a national and global maritime leader. - Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja"

Bhubaneswar, Oct 14

Odisha will formally unveil the Odisha Inland Vessel Rules, 2025 and sign strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key agencies during India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, aiming to boost inland water transport, infrastructure, and tourism.

The India Maritime Week 2025 will be held in Mumbai from October 27 to 31. As per an official press note issued on Tuesday, during IMW 2025 the state will formally unveil the Odisha Inland Vessel Rules, reinforcing regulatory support for inland water transport. The state government will also unveil a White Paper on the Odisha Maritime Perspective Plan (OMPP), outlining the long-term vision for integrated maritime development in Odisha.

The press note further stated that the state government will sign strategic MoUs with the Indian Ports Association (IPA), Paradip Port Authority (PPA), Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation Ltd. (IPRCL), and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), to enhance infrastructure and promote tourism. The Odisha Maritime Board (OMB), in its 6th Board Meeting held here on Tuesday under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, reaffirmed Odisha’s commitment to reclaiming its maritime legacy and emerging as a leading coastal economy.

“Odisha, with its rich maritime history and 480-km coastline, is strategically positioned to become a national and global maritime leader,” said Chief Secretary Ahuja during the board meeting of OMB. He emphasised the importance of sustainable, technology-driven initiatives to drive inclusive growth and revive the state’s historical prominence in maritime trade.

As Odisha prepares to participate as a State Partner at IMW 2025, the Board reviewed key initiatives and finalised a comprehensive roadmap to position the state as a hub of sustainable maritime development. During the IMW, Odisha will showcase its emergence as a key player in green hydrogen production and export, with emphasis on shipbuilding, ship repair and recycling, captive jetty development, and port-led industrial growth.

The state will also launch initiatives to build a future-ready workforce for the maritime sector. A Coffee Table Book celebrating Odisha’s maritime journey—from ancient Kalinga’s naval prowess to its modern-day maritime ambitions—will be launched during the upcoming national event in Mumbai.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Hope this actually translates to ground reality. We've seen many policies announced but implementation often lags. The MoUs with IPA and IWAI sound promising though.
A
Arun Y
As someone from coastal Odisha, I'm excited about the tourism potential. Our beaches and marine ecosystems are beautiful but underdeveloped. Hope this brings better infrastructure and job opportunities for local communities.
S
Sarah B
The workforce development initiative is crucial. India needs skilled maritime professionals, and Odisha can become a training hub. Good to see long-term planning beyond just immediate gains.
M
Manish T
While I appreciate the vision, I hope environmental concerns are properly addressed. Coastal ecosystems are fragile, and industrial development must be balanced with conservation. The mention of sustainability is reassuring.
K
Kavya N
Connecting with Odisha's ancient maritime heritage through the Coffee Table Book is a nice touch. Kalinga's naval history is something every Odia should be proud of. Jai Jagannath! 🚢

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