03 Mar 2024: PIB Summary for UPSC

1. Shri Sarbananda Sonowal dedicates first-ever Made-in-India ASTDS tug

Syllabus: GS-3, Economics

Prelims : Ocean Grace

Inauguration of ‘Ocean Grace’ and Medical Mobile Unit:

• Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of MoPSW & AYUSH, virtually inaugurated the first Made-in-India ASTDS tug named ‘Ocean Grace’ and the Medical Mobile Unit (MMU) on March 2, 2024.
• The Ocean Grace, developed by Cochin Shipyard Limited under MoPSW, marks a significant milestone in India’s maritime infrastructure and aligns with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
• The MMU reflects the port’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, providing accessible healthcare to underprivileged communities nearby.

Key Features of ‘Ocean Grace’ and Green Tug Transition Programme:

• The ‘Ocean Grace’ is a 60T bollard pull tug powered by NIGATA main engines and a Power Z-Peller ZP Propulsion engine, designed for optimal efficiency and reliability.
• It signifies a leap forward in maritime engineering and is equipped with cutting-edge technology to assist large vessels like VLCCs and ULCCs.
• The Green Tug Transition Programme aims to convert at least 50% of all tugs into Green Tugs by 2030, reducing greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
• Major ports like JNPA, DPA, PPA, and VoCPA plan to purchase two battery-electric powered green tugs from Cochin Shipyard by 2027 as part of the first phase.

Infrastructure Development and CSR Initiatives at Paradip Port:

• Paradip Port plays a crucial role in coastal shipping, managing nearly 25% of the coastal traffic handled by all ports in the country.
• The port focuses on enhancing its capacity through projects like the Western Dock project, worth Rs. 3,004.63 crore, aimed at accommodating various dry bulk cargoes and deepening the inner harbor.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities at Paradip Port encompass education, environment, healthcare, sanitation, electricity, sports, and culture, with initiatives like the Medical Mobile Unit (MMU) aimed at providing accessible healthcare to underprivileged communities.

Read previous PIB articles here.