India eyes global maritime lead by 2047, says Sonowal
India is targeting global leadership in the maritime sector by 2047, with planned investments worth `INR 80 lakh crore, creation of 1.5 crore jobs, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said here on Tuesday. “Our government is giving a strong push for green shipping as part of the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision. He emphasised that India’s maritime growth is anchored on prosperity, sustainability, and pride in heritage, aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047,” Sonowal said.
Talking to media persons in the run-up to the India Maritime Week (IMW) scheduled from 27-31 October at the Nesco Exhibition Centre at Goregaon in north Mumbai, Sonowal said: “India’s maritime journey is entering a new chapter under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under the dynamic leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi ji, we are working to transform our ports, shipping, and logistics ecosystem into one that is resilient, sustainable, and future-ready”. “The maritime sector of India is also aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, and by 2047, we aim to witness large-scale investments, world-class infrastructure, and enhanced global competitiveness across our blue economy. This opens vast avenues for international collaboration, including a 1 trillion US dollars maritime investment roadmap,” the minister said.
“IMW 2025 will be a platform where ideas can translate into projects and commitments into partnerships. India stands ready to collaborate and lead towards a maritime future that is prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive,” he added. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) in collaboration with the Indian Ports Association (IPA) and other stakeholders, are hosting the mega-event.
Stressing on India’s commitment to strengthening global maritime partnerships, attracting investments, and promoting innovation across the sector, Sonowal said: “This vision is already translating into results. Cargo movement on inland waterways has grown eightfold since 2014, turnaround time at major ports has reduced by 60%, and more than Rs 5.5 lakh crore worth of Sagarmala projects are reshaping coastal logistics. India now supplies 12% of the world’s seafarers, reflecting both its scale and maritime skill leadership”.
“With all 12 major ports set to achieve full carbon neutrality by 2047 and green energy transition targets for 2035 already underway, the focus is shifting toward a sustainable and technology-driven maritime future,” the minister said. Sonowal said that IMW 2025 would witness participation of over 1 lakh delegates and 500 exhibitors from more than 100 countries, including ministerial delegations from Singapore, the UAE, South Korea, Japan, and Denmark.
Key international organisations such as the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and UNESCAP, leading Indian states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, and major industry players including Adani Ports and Logistics, Cochin Shipyard, and Paradip Port Authority are also expected to participate in the event.
