Suhail Bhat
Mumbai, Oct 7: The Chairperson of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Unmesh Sharad Wagh, today urged traders and exporters from Jammu and Kashmir to participate in India Maritime Week 2025, scheduled to be held in Mumbai from October 27 to 31.
The global maritime event, one of the largest in the sector, will feature over 500 exhibitors from around 100 countries, more than 200 sponsors, and participation from ministers, industry leaders, and international delegates.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists from Jammu and Kashmir who visited the JNPA headquarters as part of media outreach tour organised by Press Information Bureau(PIB), Wagh, who is also the Managing Director of Wadwan Port-set to become one of India’s largest ports-said it was a matter of pride that JNPA serves as a gateway port for India’s landlocked northern region.”
The JNPA chief emphasized the need to strengthen logistics and soft-skill infrastructure to reduce the high cost of transporting products such as Kashmiri walnuts and handicrafts, which are globally renowned for their quality. “The logistics cost, including the refrigerated chain, has to be maintained. For that, goods need to be moved efficiently through rail connectivity. We have to study these needs properly to determine what kind of institutional or government support is required,” he said, adding that once these needs are identified, JNPA will collaborate with relevant agencies to address them.
He further noted that all issues and responsibilities related to port operations rest with JNPA, which functions as a fully landlord port. “Whatever is required in that area, we will learn and implement,” he added.
Highlighting the upcoming maritime event, Wagh said, “From October 27 to 31, India Maritime Week-the biggest event in the maritime sector, held once every two years-will take place in Mumbai. More than 100 countries, ministers, and many delegates will participate. All major ports, inland waterways, container freight stations, and other stakeholders will set up their stalls.
JNPA’s Public Relations Officer, Ambika Sonia, said the event aims to bring together global and Indian maritime players, including leaders, industry experts, stakeholders, and ministers, to discuss growth opportunities in the sector. “The event is crucial to give the maritime sector its due recognition for the significant role it plays in India’s export and import business,” she said.
She added that the theme for JNPA’s participation this year will be “Partnership,” showcasing how collaboration has helped JNPA become India’s largest and best-performing container port. “We are expecting large participation from both India and abroad. Registration for delegations and exhibitions is ongoing, and final numbers will be available closer to the event,” she said.
Sonia also urged journalists and trade representatives from Jammu and Kashmir to promote the event. “We invite all of you to attend India Maritime Week in Mumbai from October 27to 31 and help publicize it so that more participation comes from all Indian states,” she added.
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