Shipping ministry issues draft Sagarmala Innovation and Startup Policy

According to an official statement, the draft ‘Sagarmala Innovation and Start-up Policy’ pitches for digital portal-based selection of startups to ensure a transparent process.

It also emphasised on developing centralised repository containing all pertinent information to assist emerging entrepreneurs.

The draft policy called for creation of launch pads at ports for carrying out trials, facilitating pilot projects, establishing working space and adopting products and solutions, the statement said.

It also noted that there is a need to provide legal and accountancy back up to startups for IP-patent filing, company registration, annual filings and closures.

There is also a need to collaborate with national and international stakeholders for mentorship, knowledge sharing and facilitate access to global subject matter experts, serial entrepreneurs, business leaders, and investors with the potential to get their entry and scaling in the India.

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Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The startup India policy is the brainchild of PM (Narendra) Modi and this is the right step taken by MoPSW to create a strong ecosystem for fostering startups and innovation in the nation. “This will surely promote innovation and entrepreneurship. Through this policy, MoPSW wants to enable startups to grow and prosper through innovations.”

The draft policy identified several key areas for the startups to flourish, including decarbonisation, optimising processes through data, maritime education, multi-modal transportation, manufacturing, alternate/advance materials, maritime cybersecurity, smart communication and marine electronics.

The Sagarmala programme is the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to promote port-led development in the country through harnessing lndia’s 7,500 kilometre-long coastline, 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways and strategic location on key international maritime trade routes.