INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LIGHTHOUSE AUTHORITIES (IALA)

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LIGHTHOUSE AUTHORITIES (IALA)

Context:

• India, currently serving as the Vice President of the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), actively participated in the 2nd Session of the IALA Council in Nice, France (June 2025).
• This engagement highlights India’s long-standing commitment and increasing influence in shaping global marine aids to navigation and maritime safety standards.

WHAT IS IALA & INDIA’S ASSOCIATION?

• IALA was founded in 1957 as a non-governmental organization (NGO).
• It officially became an Intergovernmental Organization (IGO) in August 2024, after 34 countries, including India, ratified its new status.
• IALA’s motto, “Successful Voyages, Sustainable Planet,” reflects its goals of harmonizing navigation systems, reducing marine accidents, and promoting environmental protection.
• Structure : The General Assembly meets every 4 years to set priorities, while the Council (24 members, including India) meets twice a year to make decisions.
• Membership : IALA includes 80 national authorities and 60 commercial firms among its 200 members.
• India has been a member since 1957 and a Council member since 1980, represented by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL).
• India’s Current Role:
  • Elected as Vice President of IALA during the 1st General Assembly in Singapore.
  • This election reflects India’s growing global influence and strategic maritime vision.

INDIA’S PARTICIPATION IN 2ND IALA COUNCIL SESSION

• Indian Delegation:
  • Led by Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
  • Included (Joint Secretary) and (Director).
• Keynote Address by Secretary (PSW):
  • Highlighted India’s longstanding association with IALA.
  • Showcased significant progress in marine aids to navigation and vessel traffic services.
  • Specific Initiatives Mentioned:
    • Integration of vessel traffic services across 12 major ports in India.
    • Planned international training programs at the Marine Navigation Training Institute in Kolkata.
• Hosting Upcoming IALA Events:
  • Secretary (PSW) formally invited all member states to attend:
    • The 3rd IALA General Assembly in December 2025 (Mumbai).
    • The 21st IALA Conference in 2027 (Mumbai).
  • India’s proactive role and upcoming leadership in hosting major IALA events were appreciated by Council members.

SIGNIFICANCE OF INDIA’S ACTIVE ENGAGEMENT

India’s prominent role in IALA, especially as Vice President and future host of major events, signifies:

• Commitment to Maritime Safety: Reinforces India’s dedication to ensuring safe and secure navigation in its waters and contributing to global maritime safety.
• Innovation in Maritime Sector: Showcases India’s adoption of advanced technologies (like integrated VTS, IoT) in marine navigation.
• Heritage Preservation: Reflects India’s interest in conserving its rich maritime heritage, particularly lighthouses.
• Growing Global Influence: Marks India’s increasing stature and leadership in international maritime governance and standard-setting bodies.
• Capacity Building: India’s initiative to host international training programs at the Marine Navigation Training Institute in Kolkata demonstrates its commitment to building global capacity in maritime aids to navigation.

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