Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya recently assured the industry for the necessary support from the government and urged the maritime industry to turn the COVID-19 crisis into an opportunity.

Addressing an interactive session with industry stakeholders via webinar organized by FICCI, Mr Mandaviya said that the maritime associations along with FICCI should jointly prepare a comprehensive strategy and mechanism for the ministry to take decisive action.

"We are ready to help but it is the Industry that has to turn the crisis into opportunity. Industry should come forward with plans and government will provide necessary support. I want ship building industry not just to survive but also make considerable progress," said Mr Mandaviya.

He further highlighted that currently the Indian ports are working at 70-80 percent capacity but transportation of bulk cargo via road transport is still a concern which the government is working to resolve. "Port is ready to work at full capacity, but the concern for CSF, ICD might continue for some more time but they will be solved soon," added Mandaviya.

The Minister said that the government is giving thrust to Indian ship building and increasing Indian fleet size. He also urged the industry to come forward in developing a detailed strategy for this. Highlighting the steps taken by the government during the lockdown, Mr Mandaviya assured that government will continue to ensure proper functioning of the ports, identifying and solving the bottlenecks and providing necessary support to the industry.

Further, while applauding the decision making at the government, Capt BVJK Sharma, Chairman- Shipping, FICCI National Committee on Infrastructure and Director-Ports (CEO Office), Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd highlighted that many recommendations submitted by FICCI have been accepted by the government. "We would like to thank the government for a very pro-active role in ensuring smooth running of port and shipping operations during the current crisis," he added.

The webinar saw active participation of key stakeholders from shipping lines, port and terminal operators, supply chain and logistics, Inland waterways, ship owners, manufacturers/repairs, freight forwarders, shipyard owners, vessel manufacturers and operators, custom agents amongst others.