Odisha to Unveil Inland Vessel Rules, Sign Key Maritime MoUs During India Maritime Week 2025
State to showcase maritime legacy, green hydrogen initiatives, and sustainable port development in Mumbai event
Bhubaneswar : Odisha is set to make a major maritime push during the upcoming India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled to be held in Mumbai from October 27 to 31. The state will formally unveil the Odisha Inland Vessel Rules, 2025, alongside signing a series of strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading national maritime agencies to strengthen inland water transport, port infrastructure, and coastal tourism.
According to an official press note issued, the unveiling of the Odisha Inland Vessel Rules, 2025, marks a significant step in building a strong regulatory framework for inland water transport. These rules are expected to enhance operational safety, efficiency, and sustainability within Odisha’s inland waterways network while supporting commercial and passenger movement across the state’s major rivers and ports.
Odisha’s Maritime Vision for the Future
During the IMW 2025, the state government will also release a White Paper on the Odisha Maritime Perspective Plan (OMPP), which will outline a long-term vision for integrated maritime development in the state. The OMPP will focus on key areas such as coastal shipping, port-led industrialisation, logistics, and renewable energy integration, particularly around green hydrogen production and export.
Odisha will also sign strategic MoUs with the Indian Ports Association (IPA), Paradip Port Authority (PPA), Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation Ltd. (IPRCL), and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). These collaborations aim to accelerate infrastructure upgrades, improve last-mile connectivity to ports, promote inland and coastal tourism, and attract private investment into the state’s maritime ecosystem.
Strengthening Odisha’s Maritime Legacy
The developments were discussed during the 6th Board Meeting of the Odisha Maritime Board (OMB) held in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja. The meeting reaffirmed Odisha’s commitment to reviving its maritime heritage and positioning itself as a key coastal economy in India.
“Odisha, with its rich maritime history and 480-km coastline, is strategically positioned to become a national and global maritime leader,” Chief Secretary Ahuja said during the meeting. He emphasized the need for sustainable, technology-driven initiatives to ensure inclusive growth while reviving the state’s historic prominence in maritime trade and cultural exchange.
Focus on Green Energy, Port-Led Growth, and Skill Development
At India Maritime Week, Odisha will highlight its emergence as a key player in green hydrogen production and export, aligning with India’s clean energy transition goals. The state will also promote opportunities in shipbuilding, ship repair and recycling, captive jetty development, and port-led industrial growth.
A major focus area will be the creation of a future-ready maritime workforce through targeted skilling initiatives and partnerships with national and international institutions. The aim is to prepare Odisha’s youth for employment in emerging maritime sectors, including logistics, port management, and green technology.
Showcasing Odisha’s Maritime Journey
As part of the event, the state will launch a Coffee Table Book celebrating Odisha’s maritime legacy—from the ancient seafaring glory of Kalinga’s naval expeditions to the state’s modern-day ambitions in global maritime trade and industrial development. The book will serve as both a cultural showcase and a symbol of Odisha’s renewed commitment to reclaiming its maritime identity on the world stage.
By leveraging the platform of India Maritime Week 2025, Odisha aims to position itself as a hub for sustainable maritime innovation, combining tradition with technology. The initiatives planned at IMW are expected to not only boost infrastructure and investment but also strengthen Odisha’s image as a forward-looking maritime economy ready to lead India’s blue growth agenda.
