Govt giving importance to maritime security: PM

PANAJI: Conceding that the country neglected its maritime security and maritime economy in the past, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday said the UPA government is paying greater attention to them.

"I do believe that in the past, we have neglected our maritime economy as well as maritime security. The government has been paying greater attention to both," the PM said while addressing the Goa University Convocation ceremony here this morning.

"Centre has modernised ports, improved port efficiency and increased investment in port development," the PM said.

On the defence forces front, Singh said, that the Centre has increased investment in Coast Guard and Indian Navy. "we are proud of our Navy. It is one of the best navies in the world and today offers maritime security in the waters around our subcontinent," he stated.

Commending the Indian Navy further, he said "the navies of the world are reaching out to engage the Indian Navy and work with us to ensure the security of sea-lanes of communication".

"The Indian Navy will always be viewed as a source of security for all those who traverse around the wide oceans as traders, travellers and tourists," the PM said.

The PM said that government has set up the National Fisheries Development Board to unleash a blue revolution along the coastline and inland water bodies and rivers.

He stressed the need to modernise the fisheries business and infrastructure and empower the fishing communities.