Maritime News, Mumbai, India : In a resounding affirmation of its growing maritime leadership, India hosted the 3rd Council Meeting of the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA) in Mumbai from December 8–12, 2025, welcoming over 60 global delegates from 30+ countries. The event, spearheaded by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), marked a key milestone in India’s expanding role in global navigation safety and innovation.
India’s Maritime Vision Takes Center Stage
Virtually inaugurating the high-level council meeting, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal underscored India’s commitment to shaping international maritime frameworks. “India is emerging as a global maritime innovator under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi,” said Sonowal. “Hosting the IALA Council Meeting in Mumbai reflects India’s growing role in strengthening navigation safety and advancing digital and sustainable solutions.”
The Council deliberated on global marine navigation trends, safety protocols, and the evolution of digital maritime technologies, showcasing India’s technical readiness and international cooperation.
A Global Gathering of Maritime Thinkers
The event featured four key technical sessions led by IALA’s committees:
- Aids to Navigation Requirements and Management (ARM)
- Engineering and Sustainability (ENG)
- Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
- Digital Technologies (DTEC)
These discussions resulted in updated IALA standards, new guidelines for global harmonisation, and strategic roadmaps for next-generation marine navigation systems.
India’s Coastline — A 21st Century Maritime Powerhouse
India’s maritime profile is unmatched in the region:
- 11,000+ km of coastline
- 200+ ports
- 20,000 km of navigable waterways
MoPSW Secretary Vijay Kumar highlighted how this vast infrastructure is driving India’s Blue Economy ambitions, enabling connectivity, economic growth, and employment for millions.
Tourism Meets Tech: Digital Lighthouse Portal Launched
In a unique blend of heritage and innovation, the Minister also unveiled the Digital Ticketing Portal for Lighthouse Tourism, a flagship initiative to enable easy digital access to 75 iconic lighthouse destinations across India. The platform is expected to boost tourism, transparency, and revenue for coastal communities.
Spotlight on Heritage and High Tech
Delegates toured the historic Kanhoji Angre Lighthouse, where India showcased its technological advancement with First Order Fresnel optics and modern marine navigation systems — preserving maritime history while steering into the digital age.
India Secures 2027 IALA Conference Hosting Rights
In a moment of pride, India also received formal approval to host the IALA General Assembly and Conference in 2027, placing Mumbai firmly on the global maritime diplomacy map.
IALA Secretary General Francis Zachariae lauded India’s “substantive contribution to global navigation safety and maritime cooperation,” reflecting a new era of trust and collaboration between India and the international seafaring community.
