Goa may opt for maritime committee

Panaji: The Goa government, though in favour of forming a state maritime board (SMB), might first opt for a state maritime security committee (SMSC). The ministry of shipping (minor port section) had instructed all coastal states and Union territories (UT) to form a SMB, an autonomous body, to develop the maritime sector.

The proposal to form a SMSC has been put up for consideration of the Goa cabinet and a decision is likely soon.

“We will have a SMSC as soon as the cabinet gives it approval to the proposal,” an official said.

Larger states like Gujarat and Maharashtra have already formed a SMB, but smaller states and UTs are more inclined to set up a SMSC, which would serve them best given their limited maritime activity.

The official said that while the state was reluctant to form a SMB, it would in all probability set up one at a later stage.

In the last meeting, maritime states were briefed about benefits of having a SMB as against a SMSC. Being a statutory body SMB has more powers and functions and can initiate works and take decisions, which may not be possible with a SMSC.

It was suggested that smaller states with few minor ports and limited maritime activity take a call on whether to constitute a SMB or a SMSC, the official said.

Smaller states believe their limited maritime activity will not sustain the functioning of a SMB.

The ministry of shipping has been pushing maritime states to have new bodies in places. It is planning to unveil a lot of maritime development projects.

There is scope for expansion of maritime activity on account of the Sagarmala programme and declaration of additional national waterways.

SMB sounds like a good idea in terms of maritime development, the official said, adding that it will see representation of stakeholders and will decide on all aspects of the port without any kind of government intervention.

The Mormugoa Port Trust (MPT) is one such body. It has its own board which takes all policy decision, he pointed out.

The official added that while a SMSC is not likely to enjoy autonomy similar to a SMB, the nature of composition of its is also not clear. Under the new arrangement they expect to receive direct funding from the Centre instead of funds being routed through state treasury, he said.


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