CII Karnataka Ports Conference 2023 Held
Mangaluru, July 16, 2023: Mangaluru witnessed the First Edition of the Ports Conference 2023, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Karnataka.
The conference, centered around the theme “PORTs – Backbone of Indian Economy and Atmanirbhar Bharat,” explored various crucial aspects, including industry expectations and policy interventions, strengthening hinterland connectivity and logistics management to promote regional ports, and the integration of technology, automation, and digitization for the advancement of smart ports.
The event shed light on the pivotal role that ports play in the Indian economy, driving trade development and overall economic growth towards Atmanirbhar Bharat.
In his address Minister for Ports, Fisheries and Inland Transport Mankal Vaidya engaged in a B2B interaction with industry professionals from Mangaluru, discussing the opportunities and challenges within the sector. The minister emphasized the significance of deliberating on the development of minor ports to enhance trade in the state.
Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy & Infrastructure Development Department shared the department’s plans to promote port business in the state. He emphasized that port-led development is a key priority for Karnataka, and the department’s focus lies in engaging stakeholders throughout the value chain.
The integration of last-mile connectivity and port development will be prioritized to further bolster export opportunities. One of the crucial ports slated for development is Keni-belliketi, expected to increase its capacity by approximately 30 million tonnes per annum.
During the inaugural session Mullai Muhilan MP, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada outlined the department’s initiatives to augment the efforts of the New Mangalore Port Authority. These efforts aim to create more job opportunities, attract increased investments, and boost tourism prospects.
He stressed the long-lasting environmental impact of enhancing port capabilities, urging immediate action to address environmental concerns.
Dr. Venkata Ramana Akkaraju, Chairman of the New Mangalore Port Authority, highlighted the authority’s contribution to the state’s port ecosystem and its role in catalyzing economic activities. He shared notable achievements, such as generating customs revenue of 5190 crores from NMP and providing direct and indirect employment to around 350 and 10,000 individuals, respectively, thereby contributing to the state’s growth story.
In his special address Vijaykrishnan Venkatesan, Chairman of CII Karnataka State Council and Managing Director of Kennametal India Ltd, emphasized the need to strengthen ports and hinterland connectivity to achieve Karnataka’s vision of becoming a 1 trillion economy.
He proposed exploring themes beyond Bengaluru as part of the Beyond Bengaluru initiative, which focuses on creating employment opportunities. Mr. Venkatesan also highlighted the potential for the tourism sector to generate additional employment prospects statewide.
The conference provided a platform for key stakeholders, including the NHAI, CMA, Udupi Cochin Shipyard Ltd, railways, shipping agencies, and export-import organizations from across the state, to address the audience. Noteworthy participants included the New Mangalore Port Authority, Isotrack, and Udupi Cochin Shipyard Ltd, representing prominent companies in the industry.
