Advancing Inland Waterways: Amazon and IWAI Sign MoU

Current Context: Amazon Seller Services and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) on 22 November signed an agreement in New Delhi to boost cargo movement along the Ganga, reported Hindustan Times, adding, a pilot programme is set to launch on the Patna-Kolkata water route.

• The aim of the MoU signed between Amazon and IWAI is to promote cargo movement through inland waterways, which is a cost-effective and eco-friendly mode of transportation.
• This MoU is expected to boost the EXIM trade of the Northeast India region and support the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
• The IWAI is a statutory body under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways that is responsible for the development and regulation of inland waterways for shipping and navigation.
• The IWAI has identified 111 national waterways, of which 23 have potential for mechanized crafts and 17 are currently operational.

Question:

Q.1 Who signed the MoU to boost cargo movement via inland waterways?
a. Amazon and IWAI
b. Amazon and Indian Railways
c. IWAI and Flipkart
d. Amazon and FedEx