Bhubaneswar: A preparatory meeting on Odisha’s participation in India Maritime Week 2025 was convened by Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Commerce & Transport Department. Senior officials from Paradip Port, Dhamra Port, Gopalpur Port, Subarnarekha Port, and representatives from related departments and agencies joined the meeting via video conferencing.
At the outset, Padhee highlighted the significance of India Maritime Week as a premier national event that offers a unique platform to showcase the state’s maritime strengths, investment potential, and policy initiatives. She emphasised that Odisha, with its long coastline and rich maritime heritage, is strategically positioned to emerge as a gateway for trade and commerce on the eastern seaboard.
The meeting reviewed the status of preparatory activities, which included:
- Odisha’s participation in the exhibition and thematic sessions.
- Presentation of the state’s maritime initiatives and future investment opportunities.
- Logistics and coordination for the participation of ports, shipping lines, and allied sectors.
- Preparation of sectoral reports and communication materials highlighting port-led growth.
- Identification of key infrastructure and policy achievements to be showcased at the event.
Emphasising the need for synergy among all ports and departments, Padhee directed the preparation of a comprehensive action plan with clear timelines, covering infrastructure readiness, stakeholder participation, and outreach to investors and industry leaders.
She further noted that India Maritime Week 2025 will not only highlight Odisha’s existing port infrastructure but also position the state as a hub for shipbuilding, coastal shipping, inland waterways, and blue economy initiatives.
Concluding the meeting, Padhee urged all stakeholders to work in close coordination to ensure Odisha’s presence at India Maritime Week 2025 is impactful, well-represented, and aligned with the state’s vision for sustainable maritime development.
