Gujarat Maritime University Hosts Expert Session on Maritime Zones of India Act, 1976 and Recent Developments

By Admin

20 Feb, 2026

In a significant academic initiative aimed at strengthening the understanding of India’s maritime legal framework, Gujarat Maritime University (GMU) organised an insightful Expert Session on “Maritime Zones of India Act, 1976 – Recent Developments.” The session brought together students, faculty members, and maritime law enthusiasts to explore the evolving dimensions of India’s maritime governance and policy structure.

The event featured Apurv Kumar Mishra, Consultant at the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), Government of India, who shared his professional expertise and in-depth understanding of India’s maritime governance and regulatory architecture.

Setting the Academic Tone

The programme commenced with a formal welcome address, setting the tone for an intellectually engaging and policy-driven discussion. Speakers encouraged students to move beyond textbook knowledge and actively engage with the practical realities of governance, policy formulation, and implementation in India’s maritime sector.

The session underscored the importance of understanding maritime law not merely as legislation, but as a strategic instrument that shapes national security, economic development, and international diplomacy.

Understanding the Maritime Zones of India Act, 1976

Drawing from his professional experience at EAC-PM, Mr. Mishra delivered a comprehensive overview of the Maritime Zones of India Act, 1976, highlighting its foundational role in defining India’s maritime boundaries.

He explained how the Act strategically demarcates:

• Territorial Waters
  
  

• Contiguous Zone
  
  

• Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
  
  

• Continental Shelf
  
  

These maritime zones are central to safeguarding India’s sovereign rights, regulating marine resources, and ensuring compliance with international maritime conventions.

Recent Developments and Policy Considerations

The expert session further explored recent developments shaping India’s maritime regulatory framework. Mr. Mishra elaborated on how evolving global maritime norms, economic security priorities, and geopolitical considerations are influencing policy updates and administrative mechanisms.

Special emphasis was placed on:

• Alignment with international maritime standards
  
  

• Strengthening institutional coordination
  
  

• Sustainable utilisation of marine resources
  
  

• Enhancing economic security through maritime governance
  
  

The discussion highlighted how legal clarity and regulatory strength are essential for supporting India’s expanding maritime ambitions.

Administrative Evolution and Institutional Coordination

A key highlight of the session was the examination of evolving administrative mechanisms underpinning maritime regulation. Mr. Mishra explained how coordinated efforts between various governmental bodies ensure effective maritime governance, economic protection, and environmental sustainability.

Participants gained insights into how strategic maritime planning contributes to national decision-making, particularly in the context of India’s growing blue economy and its broader strategic maritime outlook.

Bridging Academia and Policy Practice

The interactive format of the session allowed students to engage directly with real-world policy perspectives. Through questions and dialogue, participants explored the practical application of maritime law in governance and economic planning.

Students described the engagement as enriching and highly relevant, especially at a time when India’s maritime domain is witnessing significant transformation. The session successfully bridged the gap between academic learning and real-world policy implementation.

Reinforcing GMU’s Commitment to Maritime Excellence

The initiative reaffirmed Gujarat Maritime University’s commitment to fostering informed dialogue, policy awareness, and industry-academia collaboration within the maritime domain. By facilitating expert interactions and practical insights, GMU continues to position itself as a leading academic institution dedicated to advancing maritime studies in India.

As India strengthens its maritime presence and blue economy ambitions, such academic engagements play a critical role in preparing future maritime leaders equipped with legal knowledge, policy awareness, and strategic insight.