MUMBAI, Dec 16: JNPA, a prominent container port, announced on Monday that it has entered into an initial agreement with the shipping regulator DGS to offer skill development training for local residents and those affected by the Vadhvan port project. This initiative will be conducted through select Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs) as a new greenfield port is being established in the area.
Located near Dahanu in Maharashtra’s Palghar district, this new facility is being developed by Vadhvan Port Project Ltd (VPPL) with a total investment of Rs 76,200 crore. JNPA holds a 74% stake in VPPL, while the Maharashtra Maritime Board owns the remaining 26%.
The agreement between JNPA and the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) aims to empower local individuals from the Vadhvan Port region by providing them with recognized maritime qualifications, including GP (General Purpose) Rating and certificates in maritime catering. This will help them secure careers as seafarers, according to the port operator.
The program, supported by JNPA’s CSR funding and estimated to cost Rs 2-3 lakhs per candidate, will cover training fees, accommodation, and meals. In collaboration with DG Shipping and MTIs, the initiative promises high-quality training, including onboard experience, to facilitate sustainable career opportunities in the maritime sector while contributing to India’s expanding seafaring workforce.
Additionally, another agreement was reached between VPPL and the Dye Makers Association at Vadhvan, providing exclusive branding opportunities for the association.
“The signing of these pivotal Memorandums of Understanding and the initiation of the Vadhvan Port skilling program mark a significant advancement towards our goal of inclusive growth and community empowerment. These initiatives are designed to create long-term employment opportunities and stimulate economic development in the Vadhvan area, catering to the youth’s skill needs while also offering branding, financing, and advanced training for dye manufacturers,” stated Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairman and Managing Director of JNPA and VPPL.
Upon completion, the facility is projected to generate 1.2 million direct and indirect jobs.
Furthermore, JNPA and VPPL will also sign an MoU with Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth to develop and implement an integrated agricultural and horticultural plan for selected villages in Dahanu and Palghar taluka as part of welfare activities related to the greenfield Vadhvan port project.
JNPA is also working on a Fishermen’s Compensation Policy to support the fishing community in accordance with Maharashtra Government guidelines, with Rs 300 crore allocated for constructing two fishing harbors.
To assist dye makers, in collaboration with the Union Bank of India, a cluster-specific scheme has been proposed offering a concessional interest rate alongside an attractive interest subvention scheme, enabling artisans to secure low-cost funding for upgrading their machinery and scaling their businesses.
Additional initiatives will focus on technology enhancement through training programs covering automation, AI, and advanced tools such as AutoCAD and CNC machines to boost productivity and competitiveness.
(PTI)
