Shri Vikas Narwal, IAS, Managing Director of the Indian Ports Association (IPA), visited the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) on October 12, 2026, for discussions on key initiatives concerning seafarer welfare, maritime facilitation, coastal shipping and port-led development.
The meeting focused on strengthening coordination between DGMA and IPA and advancing several programmes aimed at improving India’s maritime infrastructure, operational efficiency and coastal connectivity.
Key areas of discussion included the demonstration of the Online Booking System (OBS) for seafarer hostel facilities and the implementation of seafarer welfare projects across coastal States. The meeting also addressed the development of immigration facilitation infrastructure at Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) and Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) establishments at EXIM ports.
The effective implementation and stabilisation of the Maritime Single Window (MSW) system was another important agenda item, with emphasis on stakeholder engagement. Discussions also covered the preparation and finalisation of the National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan, along with the development of the National Database for Coastal Shipping (NDCS), including deployment timelines, technical resources and supporting infrastructure.
India’s ambition to develop a transshipment hub was also discussed, with a focus on undertaking a comprehensive study to assess the potential, challenges and opportunities. The functioning and operationalisation of the National Centre for Logistics and Port Efficiency also featured in the deliberations.
On port security, the discussions examined ways to strengthen port facility security through institutional coordination, training and technology integration under the proposed Bureau of Port Security (BoPS). Other agenda items included the development of the India Pavilion concept, preparatory coordination for the proposed Maritime National Games 2027, and engagement with coastal States through Gujarat Maritime University (GMU).
The meeting also explored a standardised approach to shore-to-ship initiatives and project development, including the potential role of Power Finance Corporation (PFC) in facilitating low-cost financing mechanisms and IPA’s support for centralised distribution rights.
The visit provided an opportunity for DGMA and IPA to review ongoing initiatives, discuss implementation priorities and strengthen institutional coordination across key areas of India’s maritime development agenda.