India
is undergoing a transformative modernization of its maritime infrastructure to
strengthen its global trade presence. The Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047
aims to invest ₹80 lakh crore to expand port capacity, achieve carbon
neutrality, and develop international container trans-shipment hubs. This
initiative seeks to make India one of the top five shipbuilding nations while
generating employment and enhancing inland waterways.
Source:https://ebnw.net/news/major-initiatives-for-indias-maritime-sector-a-step-towards-global-leadership/
To further bolster the sector, the
government launched a ₹250-billion Maritime Development Fund in February 2025.
This fund, with 49% government participation, provides long-term financing for
shipbuilding and port development, supporting India’s vision to attain
developed nation status by 2047. Environmental sustainability is also a
priority. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, in partnership
with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), established the National Centre
of Excellence in Green Port and Shipping (NCoEGPS) to develop regulatory
frameworks and alternative technologies.
The center focuses on reducing
emissions and promoting sustainable maritime operations. Key government
initiatives such as Sagarmala, Sagarmanthan, and Sagar Ankalan
play a vital role in shaping India's maritime future. The Sagarmala
Programme focuses on port-led development, improving logistics
efficiency, and enhancing coastal shipping. Sagarmanthan is
a digital platform enabling real-time monitoring and decision-making for port
and shipping operations, ensuring transparency and efficiency. Sagar
Ankalan is a data-driven initiative that integrates AI and analytics
to optimize maritime operations and improve overall logistics management. These
initiatives collectively aim to modernize ports, reduce turnaround times, and
boost India's trade competitiveness.
Besides this, India is also pursuing global partnerships, including discussions with Italy on port infrastructure and shipbuilding. Major projects like the ₹76,220 crore Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra are underway to expand trade capacity. Meanwhile, the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy was revised in 2024 to boost the shipbuilding sector, attracting significant vessel orders and reviving India’s maritime legacy.
The government is further focusing
on multimodal connectivity, linking ports with highways,
railways, and inland waterways to improve cargo movement and reduce logistics
costs. Coastal shipping and riverine transport are being promoted to decongest
roads and cut carbon emissions. With these efforts, India is positioning itself
as a global maritime powerhouse, balancing economic growth with environmental
sustainability and enhanced global trade competitiveness.
