India has once again demonstrated its growing influence in global maritime governance by successfully hosting the 3rd Council Meeting of the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA) in Mumbai. The high-level meeting was organised by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) and took place from 08 to 12 December 2025.
The event brought together over 60 international delegates from more than 30 countries, reflecting the international community’s confidence in India’s leadership in maritime safety, navigation standards, and technological innovation. The successful hosting of the IALA Council Meeting marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global maritime hub.
High-Level Participation and Global Representation
The Council Meeting was inaugurated on 09 December 2025 by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The inauguration was attended by Shri Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary (Ports, Shipping and Waterways), along with senior officials from the Ministry and maritime institutions.
In his address, the Union Minister highlighted India’s rapid progress in the maritime sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He emphasised that hosting the IALA Council Meeting in Mumbai reflects India’s expanding role in shaping international maritime standards, improving navigation safety, and promoting digital and sustainable maritime solutions. The presence of senior representatives from IALA and maritime administrations across continents underscored the global importance of the discussions held during the week-long meeting.
India as a Global Maritime Innovator
Addressing the international delegates, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal stated that India is emerging as a global maritime innovator, driven by reforms, investments, and technology adoption. He underlined that India’s approach to maritime development balances safety, sustainability, and digital transformation. The Minister noted that marine aids to navigation are a critical pillar of safe and efficient maritime operations, especially at a time when global shipping volumes are rising and maritime routes are becoming increasingly complex. India’s active participation in IALA reflects its commitment to contributing meaningfully to global maritime governance.
Launch of Digital Ticketing Portal for Lighthouse Tourism
One of the major highlights of the event was the launch of the Digital Ticketing Portal for Lighthouse Tourism by the Union Minister. This initiative aims to enhance digital access, transparency, and visitor convenience across 75 lighthouse tourism destinations in India. The portal allows visitors to book tickets online, improving user experience while supporting the government’s broader push for digitalisation in the maritime and tourism sectors. This initiative also aligns with India’s efforts to promote coastal tourism and preserve maritime heritage through modern technology.
India’s Expanding Maritime Domain and Blue Economy Vision
Speaking at the meeting, Shri Vijay Kumar, Secretary (PSW), highlighted the vast scale and importance of India’s maritime domain. With a coastline exceeding 11,000 kilometres, more than 200 ports, and nearly 20,000 kilometres of navigable waterways, India’s maritime sector serves as a backbone for trade, connectivity, and employment. He noted that India, now the world’s fourth-largest economy, is undergoing a transformative phase in its maritime development. Marine aids to navigation, he emphasised, play a crucial role in supporting India’s Blue Economy aspirations, ensuring safe movement of vessels and protection of marine environments.
Recognition from IALA Leadership
Mr. Francis Zachariae, Secretary General of IALA, expressed his appreciation to the Government of India and DGLL for successfully hosting the Council Meeting. He acknowledged India’s substantive contributions to global navigation safety, standard-setting, and international maritime cooperation. The appreciation from IALA leadership reinforced India’s standing as a trusted and active partner in advancing global maritime safety frameworks.
Key Technical Deliberations and Outcomes
The Council Meeting featured extensive technical discussions and presentations by IALA’s four core committees:
- Aids to Navigation Requirements and Management (ARM)
- Engineering and Sustainability (ENG)
- Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
- Digital Technologies (DTEC)
These sessions reviewed ongoing work, emerging challenges, and future priorities in marine aids to navigation. The deliberations resulted in the updating of existing IALA standards and guidelines, along with the development of new global standards aimed at harmonising navigation practices worldwide. These outcomes are expected to strengthen maritime safety, enhance interoperability between countries, and support the adoption of digital and sustainable navigation solutions.
Also read: India Strengthens Global Partnerships to Transform Shipping Sector
Approval of IALA Conference and General Assembly 2027 Venue
As part of the programme, the IALA Council visited the proposed venue for the IALA Conference and General Assembly 2027. Following the visit, the Council granted formal approval, marking another significant achievement for India’s maritime diplomacy. Hosting the IALA Conference and General Assembly in 2027 will further reinforce India’s position as a key centre for international maritime dialogue and cooperation.
Technical Tour Showcases Maritime Heritage and Innovation
The international delegates also participated in a technical tour of the historic Kanhoji Angre Lighthouse. The lighthouse is equipped with a First Order Fresnel optic and modern marine navigation systems. The visit highlighted India’s commitment to preserving maritime heritage while seamlessly integrating state-of-the-art navigation technology. The tour was widely appreciated by delegates and served as a strong example of how tradition and innovation can coexist in the maritime sector.
India’s Continued Commitment to Global Navigation Safety
India remains an active Council Member of IALA, contributing to global standard-setting, capacity building, technical cooperation, and the advancement of safe navigation practices. Through close collaboration with international partners, India continues to support safer seas, efficient shipping, and sustainable maritime growth. The successful hosting of the 3rd IALA Council Meeting in Mumbai stands as a clear reflection of India’s leadership, capability, and commitment to shaping the future of global maritime navigation.
Source: PIB
