Proper impetus to shipping industry in the North Andhra region would check migration and spur economic activity in one of the the most backward areas of the country, as per the study of a US-returned NRI and CEO of PULSUS group Srinubabu Gedela.
Mr. Srinubabu, who hails from Srikakulam district, was a member of ‘Make in India’ delegation of the Union Ministry of Commerce that studied the progress of shipping industry in Greece recently.
He submitted a report to the Union and State governments over the opportunities for shipping industry in the North Andhra region where the Visakhapatnam Port and other 13 non-major ports are currently handling exports and imports.
The State, which is expected to handle 15 crore metric tonnes of cargo by end of 2020, can register more growth if it is able to do a comprehensive study over the shipping activity all along its 974 km sea coast.
The cargo handling may go up to 50 crore metric tonnes by year 2025 if the government comes out with a detailed promotion plan.
The industry may create 10 lakh new jobs within no time in the State itself if more ports like Bhavanapadu of Srikakulam district are developed, according to the report.
Greece model
“Greece is doing tremendous business by promoting shipping industry. It allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment. Indian government should also relax FDI norms. It should also concentrate on the industry. Currently, India’s share is only 1% in the segment. It may go up to 5% by 2020,” said Mr. Srinubabu, while interacting with the media here.
“Currently, Gujarat is playing a dominant role in shipping industry. Andhra Pradesh will also witness huge economic activity from Srikakulam to Nellore. We are planning to meet Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy very soon to explain the opportunities in A.P., particularly in the North Andrha region. It certainly helps stop migration of fishermen and labourers from backward districts like Srikakulam and Vizianagaram,” he added.
