Bhubaneswar: The 14th Multi Agency Maritime Security Group (Policy) meeting was formally inaugurated in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday, marking the first time the high-level national maritime security conference was held outside New Delhi.

Addressing the meeting at Lok Seva Bhavan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the sea is not merely a geographical boundary but a gateway to vast opportunities, prosperity, and international cooperation.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the 21st century is widely regarded as the Indo-Pacific century and noted that India is emerging as a major maritime power on the global stage. He said hosting the meeting in Odisha reflects the spirit of cooperative federalism promoted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Majhi stressed that India’s oceans, ports, fisheries resources and blue economy are valuable national assets whose protection is crucial not only for national security but also for economic growth and the livelihoods of lakhs of coastal residents. He said maritime security today extends beyond conventional law enforcement and includes safeguarding critical infrastructure, enhancing maritime domain awareness, strengthening cyber security, disaster management and environmental protection.

Highlighting Odisha’s maritime heritage, the Chief Minister said the state has a coastline of nearly 575 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal. He recalled the historic maritime trade and cultural links established by ancient Kalinga sailors with Southeast Asian countries, a legacy that continues to be celebrated through the annual Bali Jatra fair.

Majhi said Odisha is playing a key role in India’s maritime development story. To strengthen the state's strategic maritime position, a deep-sea port is being developed in Ganjam district, while a shipbuilding cluster is being established near Paradip.

The Chief Minister reiterated Odisha’s support for key Government of India initiatives, including SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), the Act East Policy, BIMSTEC, and the Coastal Security Scheme Phase III.

He also emphasised the importance of adopting advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, unmanned systems and modern monitoring networks to enhance maritime security. Initiatives such as installing NABHMITRA transponders in fishing vessels and implementing the Coastal Vibrant Village Programme, he said, would significantly strengthen coastal security mechanisms.

Majhi praised the efforts of the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, Odisha Police and other agencies engaged in safeguarding the country’s maritime borders, and called for continued coordination among all stakeholders to address emerging security challenges in the maritime domain.