In a bold declaration that heralds a transformative era for India’s maritime future, Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has unveiled an ambitious plan that could see India ranking among the world’s top five shipbuilding powerhouses by 2047. This vision comes with a promise to boost shipbuilding capacity by an astounding 4 million gross registered tonnage (GRT), positioning the nation on a formidable path towards maritime supremacy.
Speaking at the two-day ‘Chintan Shivir 2025’ in Srinagar, Sonowal underscored a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at reinvigorating India’s shipbuilding and repair capabilities. “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s maritime sector has witnessed remarkable growth. Our commitment to transforming ports and waterways remains unwavering,” he proclaimed, encapsulating the spirit of progress and innovation that now defines India’s maritime ambitions.
A key highlight of the summit was the formulation of strategies designed to achieve an aggressive target: completing at least 150 projects by September of this year, with ongoing projects worth a staggering Rs 2 lakh crore in the pipeline. This ambitious agenda is not just about numbers; it reflects a comprehensive overhaul of maritime infrastructure, an infusion of cutting-edge digital solutions, and a strong drive toward environmental sustainability.
Among the major announcements, the launch of the Bharat Container Shipping Line under the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) stands out as a significant milestone. This strategic move is expected to enhance India’s global shipping capabilities, facilitating smoother and more efficient trade routes that are crucial in today’s interconnected world. Complementing this, all major ports are set to initiate tenders for at least one Green Tug within the next three months, a decisive step towards cleaner, more eco-friendly maritime operations.
Environmentally conscious initiatives are at the forefront of the new maritime strategy. The Harbour Craft Green Transition Programme is being rolled out to accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions across Indian ports. The establishment of a Coastal Green Shipping Corridor, starting with the Kandla-Tuticorin corridor, promises to revolutionize green shipping practices. This innovative partnership among SCI, the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VoCPA) is not only a win for environmental sustainability but also a strategic move to attract global investments.
A major boost is also being given to inland connectivity, which often goes unnoticed in a robust transport network. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has committed Rs 100 crore to developing three national waterways in Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the government’s dedication to enhancing inland water transport and connectivity. This initiative is set to stimulate regional economies and open up new avenues for trade and tourism in the area.
The maritime sector is preparing for a digital revolution with a focus on innovation. The Sagarmala Digital Centre of Excellence (CoE) will spearhead the sector’s digital transformation in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC). This digital leap is expected to streamline operations, reduce delays, and significantly enhance port competitiveness. Moreover, the forthcoming Sagarmala Startup and Innovation Initiative (S2I2) and the establishment of Maritime Innovation Hubs (MIHs) are geared to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and technological advancement, driving India’s maritime sector toward unprecedented growth.
For the cruise travel enthusiasts, a new chapter in leisure and tourism is unfolding with the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal, slated to commence commercial operations by April 2025. This state-of-the-art terminal is set to transform Mumbai into a global cruise hub, offering world-class facilities and thereby bolstering the local economy.
The integration of cutting-edge technologies, sustainable practices, and expansive infrastructural projects, as India navigates its path to become a global maritime giant, envisions a future where the maritime sector plays a pivotal role in national growth and development. With each initiative meticulously crafted to elevate India’s status on the global maritime map, the nation is poised to ride the wave of progress into a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled economic growth.
India’s maritime vision is not just about building ships in an era where every wave matters, but also about creating a legacy that will guide the nation towards a future of prosperity and global relevance.
