Sarbananda Sonowal Inaugurates 3rd Global IALA Council Session in Mumbai

By Admin

10 Dec, 2025

The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal, virtually inaugurated the 3rd Session of the Council of the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA) in Mumbai. The global event, held from December 8–12, marks an important milestone in India’s growing leadership in international maritime cooperation.

Organised by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL), the session brings together 42 IALA Council members, three AIMG members, 11 observers, the IALA Secretariat and representatives from more than 30 countries. Hosting this prestigious meeting underscores India’s rising influence in shaping global maritime standards.

During the event, Sonowal launched the Digital Ticketing Portal for Lighthouse Tourism, a significant step aimed at offering transparency, ease of access and enhanced convenience for visitors across 75 lighthouse destinations. He also noted that all Indian lighthouses are now solar powered, contributing to the sector’s sustainable growth and increased tourism over the past decade.

In his address, the Minister highlighted India’s deep maritime roots dating back to the Harappan era. He also discussed the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, which will feature a dedicated Lighthouse Museum celebrating India’s maritime history and future vision.

Sonowal emphasized the need for global cooperation as maritime navigation transforms with emerging technologies such as autonomous shipping, satellite-based navigation and digital vessel management. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to collaborating with IALA to strengthen global navigation safety standards.

He further stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s maritime sector is experiencing a major transformation. From infrastructure expansion and innovation to sustainable shipping and digital services, India is positioning itself as a key contributor to global maritime safety and standardisation.

The Minister also referenced long-term national strategies such as Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which aim to boost port infrastructure, shipbuilding capabilities, logistics efficiency, green shipping and digital transformation.

He reiterated that aids to navigation remain core to maritime safety. India continues to invest in advanced AtoN systems, digital navigation technologies and training programs for developing maritime nations.

As an active IALA Council member, India contributes significantly to global standard-setting, technical training and international cooperation. Hosting the 3rd IALA Council Session in Mumbai reflects India’s commitment to strengthening global maritime partnerships and advancing navigation safety and sustainability.