Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has highlighted the necessity for a comprehensive maritime security framework that addresses national interests, economic prosperity, and the welfare of coastal communities. In his address during the inaugural session of the two-day 14th Multi-Agency Maritime Security Group policy meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan on Wednesday, Majhi remarked that the seas of the 21st century serve as gateways to global partnerships and opportunities, reinforcing India’s position as a formidable force in the Indo-Pacific era.
Linking this modern perspective to the region’s historical context, the Chief Minister noted that Odisha’s rich maritime heritage is reflected in the ancient term ‘Mahodadhi,’ which signifies the sea and is integral to the state’s culture and identity. He reaffirmed Odisha’s commitment to national initiatives such as SAGAR, the Act East Policy, BIMSTEC, and the third phase of the coastal security scheme to protect this crucial domain. The state is backing these initiatives by deploying advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and Nabhmitra transponders to bolster surveillance and governance.
However, Majhi pointed out that the scope of maritime protection has significantly broadened beyond conventional law enforcement and naval defense. He stated that contemporary maritime security must proactively address the protection of critical infrastructure, digital threats through cybersecurity, disaster preparedness, and ecological conservation. “The safety of our ports, fisheries, and the evolving blue economy is directly tied to the financial security of our nation and the daily survival of millions along the coastlines,” he added.
Biswajit Dasgupta, the National Maritime Security Coordinator, emphasized that there is no one-size-fits-all model for tackling maritime threats operationally. He advocated for an integrated strategic approach, highlighting that the national maritime security office is focused on enhancing coordination and awareness among all coastal states. Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg and Director General of Police Y B Khurania also spoke at the policy summit, which drew policymakers and security experts from across the nation.
This significant national meeting is being held in Odisha, marking a historic change for the organization as it takes place outside of New Delhi for the first time. Chief Minister Majhi concluded by stating that the choice of venue reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of cooperative federalism, bringing multi-agency leadership to the coastlines to tackle emerging maritime challenges directly.
