India’s approach to the seas mirrors its approach to agriculture – 60% of India is agrarian but it contributes roughly 18% of the economy; 95% of our trade comes from the sea, but the sea has no contribution. If the Navy, Coast guard, Police, Shipyards and other concerned authorities unite, could Mumbai be the trigger for change?
Advancing towards this end, Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations held a private roundtable breakfast meeting with maritime affairs representatives including the Indian Navy, the merchant shipping industry, the sea-farer’s members, police, lawyers, financiers and strategists to discuss Gateway House’s Maritime Affairs Studies Programme.
With such a wide array of members, the discussion revolved around maritime security, naval boundries, resources of the seabed, international waters and trade, whilst providing substantial input to help establish a maritime agenda for Mumbai.
The meeting was coordinated by former Vice Admiral of Naval Staff (Retired), Venkat Bharathan, Gateway House’s Maritime Advisor. The discussion set the stage for Gateway House’s inquiry into Mumbai’s coastal future, and also the possibility of building a maritime centre.