In a significant academic initiative aimed at strengthening the understanding of India’s maritime legal framework, Gujarat Maritime University (GMU) organised an insightful Expert Session on “Maritime Zones of India Act, 1976 – Recent Developments.” The session featured Mr. Apurv Kumar Mishra, Consultant at the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), Government of India, who shared his expertise on the country’s maritime governance and policy architecture.
The programme commenced with a formal welcome address, setting the tone for an intellectually engaging discussion. Speakers encouraged students to go beyond textbook knowledge and explore the practical dimensions of governance, policy formulation and implementation in India’s maritime sector.
Drawing from his professional experience at EAC-PM, Mr. Mishra provided a comprehensive overview of the Maritime Zones of India Act, 1976, outlining its strategic importance in defining India’s territorial waters, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and continental shelf. He elaborated on recent developments and policy considerations shaping India’s maritime regulatory framework in alignment with global maritime norms and national interests.
The session further highlighted the evolving administrative mechanisms and institutional coordination that underpin maritime regulation, economic security and sustainable use of marine resources. Emphasis was placed on India’s growing maritime ambitions and the role of sound legal frameworks in strengthening national decision-making.
The interactive session offered students valuable practical insights into maritime law and governance, successfully bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world policy application. Participants described the engagement as enriching and relevant, particularly in the context of India’s expanding blue economy and strategic maritime outlook.
The initiative reaffirmed GMU’s commitment to fostering informed dialogue, policy awareness and industry-academia collaboration in the maritime domain.
