Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugrated the first-ever three-day Maritime India Summit (MIS) here, aimed at attracting global investors to the huge opportunities in the maritime sector.Modi said the country has inherited a glorious maritime heritage and is now the government's endeavour to revive and restore her position of eminence in the global maritime sector."Maritime transport can be the most extensive mode of transport. It is also the most eco-friendly mode of transport," Modi said."But we have to make sure that our lifestyle, transport systems and trading behaviour do not spoil the ecology of the oceans," he added.The prime minister also stressed the importance of maritime security, freedom of navigation, safety and security of sealinks for trade, development and progress."The elimination of sea piracy, which was a big threat to international shipping a few years ago, is a good example of how joint efforts by maritime nations can yield good results," Modi pointed out."This is the first time that a global event on such a large scale is being organised by India,” he added.
Earlier, Modi inaugurated a maritime exhibition at the Ship Museum showcasing the glorious Indian heritage in the sector and its future potential.The MIS will showcase to a global audience sectors like existing port development and modernisation of berths and terminals, Greenfield ports, port-led development under 'Sagarmala', shipbuilding, repairs and breaking, coastal shipping, inland water transport, cruises, lighthouse tourism, hinterland connectivity and logistics handling.Deals worth over Rs.82,000 crore are expected to be signed during the event, in which delegates, CEOs and expets from 41 countries will participate, in which South Korea is a partner.