Bhubaneswar, 24 June (H.S.): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday inaugurated the 14th Multi-Agency Maritime Security Group (Policy) Meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan, emphasizing that the sea is not merely a geographical boundary but a gateway to opportunities, prosperity, and international cooperation.

Addressing the high-level gathering, the Chief Minister said the 21st century is the “Indo-Pacific Century,” with India emerging as a major maritime power on the global stage. He noted that the decision to hold the prestigious national maritime security meeting in Odisha for the first time outside New Delhi reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to cooperative federalism.

Highlighting the strategic importance of maritime assets, Majhi said India’s seas, ports, fisheries resources, and blue economy constitute vital national wealth. Protecting these resources is crucial not only for national security but also for economic growth and the livelihoods of millions of people living along the coast.

The Chief Minister stressed that maritime security today extends beyond traditional law-and-order concerns and encompasses critical infrastructure protection, maritime domain awareness, cybersecurity, disaster management, and environmental conservation.

Referring to Odisha’s rich maritime heritage, he noted that the state’s 575-kilometre coastline along the Bay of Bengal has historically connected ancient Kalinga traders with Southeast Asian nations through trade and cultural exchanges. The legacy continues to be celebrated through the annual Bali Jatra festival.

Majhi said Odisha is playing an increasingly significant role in India’s maritime growth story. To strengthen the state’s strategic maritime position, a deep-sea port is being developed in Ganjam, while a shipbuilding cluster is being established near Paradip.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed Odisha’s support for the Government of India’s key maritime initiatives, including SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), the Act East Policy, BIMSTEC, and the Coastal Security Scheme Phase-III. He also underscored the need to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI), unmanned systems, and advanced surveillance networks to strengthen maritime security.

He highlighted initiatives such as the installation of NABHMITRA transponders on fishing vessels and the Coastal Vibrant Village Programme as important measures to enhance coastal and maritime security. The Chief Minister also lauded the efforts of the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Odisha Police, and other security agencies in safeguarding the nation’s maritime boundaries.

Speaking at the event, National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC) Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta said there is no single model that can effectively address all maritime security challenges. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategic framework that integrates multiple approaches and best practices.

Dasgupta noted that the National Maritime Security Office in New Delhi has been actively promoting maritime security awareness and providing guidance to all coastal states.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg stated that maritime security is not confined to military or security dimensions alone. She urged officials to focus equally on the protection and development of islands and other maritime territories in addition to coastal regions.

The conference was attended by Chief Minister’s Advisor Prakash Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Hemant Sharma, Director General of Police Y. B. Khurania, maritime security coordinators from coastal states, senior officials from the Centre and state governments, and representatives of various maritime and security agencies.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda