GCCI President Highlights Vision for Blue Economy, Net Zero Emissions by 2070

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) and Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Joint Program on Blue Economy, Sustainable Development, and Economic Prosperity

 Ahmedabad, Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) and the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) successfully organized a significant program focused on the vital themes of “Blue Economy,” “Sustainable Development,” and “Economic Prosperity.”

In his welcome address, Mr. Sandeep P. Engineer, President of GCCI, emphasized the importance of harmonizing these elements for a prosperous future. He referenced the vision articulated by Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi in his “Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,” which advocates for strategic initiatives enhancing port facilities and promoting sustainable practices while facilitating international collaboration. Mr. Engineer reaffirmed India’s commitment to achieving “Net Zero Emissions” by 2070 and highlighted the proactive approach of both the Government of India and the Government of Gujarat toward realizing the Blue Economy.

Mr. Pathik Patwari, Chairman of ICC Gujarat Council, delivered the theme address, stressing the need for robust international cooperation to protect oceans and marine resources. He discussed various initiatives, including the Sagarmala Project and the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, aimed at leveraging Gujarat’s coastal potential for sustainable economic growth.

Special Guest Professor Dr. Manoj Choudhary, Vice-Chancellor of Gati Shakti University, emphasized India’s rapid transformation and the government’s commitment to enhancing logistics efficiency and coastal infrastructure. His insights underlined the significant developments made over the past decade in the country’s infrastructure and sustainable practices.

During the session-1 on “Business Opportunities related to Blue Economy” the learned speakers were Mr. Mohamed Dawood Sait, President, Indian Marine Ingredients Association, Dr. M.P.Sudharkar, Project Scientist II, Marine Biotechnology Division, NIOT, Ms. S. Devaki, Director, M.K.Srinivasan and Systems Pvt. Ltd, Mr. Ankit Patel, Director & CEO, Acquafront Infrastructure, and Mr. Nissar F. Mohammed, Secretary, CLFMA of India,

During the session-2 on “Recent Research & Commercially Viable Ocean Technology” the learned speakers were Mr. NV Vinith Kumar, Scientist (F), Deep Ocean Mission, NIOT, Capt. Amresh Jha, Vice President, Kanoo Shipping, India, and Mr. Neeraj Kohli, GM, Sales & Marketing, Tata Chemicals.

During the session-3 on “Marine Aquaculture & Fishing” the learned speakers were Dr.M. Jayanthi, Principal Scientist, ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Mr. Shrimali Vinod Kumar, Deputy Director, Sub-Regional Division, MPEDA, Porbandar, Mr. Ketanbhai Suyani, Regional President, SEAI, Mr. Mohamed Dawood Sait, President, Indian Marine Ingredients Association and Mr. Pankaj Amrut Patil, Scientist, ICAR.

During the session-4 on “Shipping, Ports & Maritime Logistics” the learned speakers were Mr. Samir J. Shah, Director, JBS Group of Companies, Mr. Girish Thomas, General Manager (Traffic), Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Mr. Pankaj Singhi, Head, Coastal Shipping Unifeeder, Mr. Devang Joshi, Director, Anchor Cargo Lines, and Capt. Amresh Jha, Vice President, Kanoo Shipping, India.

During the session-5 on “Blue Economy: Powered by Startup Revolution” the learned speakers were Mr. Hiranmay Mahanta, CEO, i-Hub, Mr. Akhil Manisery, Vice President, Business Development, EyeRov, Mr. Xavier Lawrance, Founder, Odaku Online Services Private Limited and Mr. Gaurav Seth, Co.Founder, PierSight Space.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Apurva Shah, Vice President of GCCI, who expressed gratitude to all attendees and reaffirmed the commitment of GCCI and ICC to promote a sustainable and prosperous economic environment in Gujarat and beyond.

This event was a significant step towards fostering collaboration and dialogue on sustainable economic practices essential for the growth of trade and industry in the region.