Advancements in India's Maritime Sector

Maritime Sector Developments in India

Key Highlights from Maritime Leaders Conclave:

• Event: Held during India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, attended by representatives from over 85 countries.
• Objectives: To discuss sustainable maritime growth, resilient supply chains, green shipping, and inclusive blue economy strategies.

Government Initiatives and Achievements:

1. Legislative Updates:

   • Replacement of colonial shipping laws with modern laws under the Merchant Shipping Act, aligning Indian maritime laws with international conventions to enhance trust and improve the ease of doing business.
   • Introduction of the Coastal Shipping Act to simplify trade and secure supply chains.

2. Port Developments:

   • Vizhinjam Port: First deep-water international trans-shipment hub operational, welcoming the world’s largest container vessel.
   • Kandla Port: First Indian port to launch a megawatt-scale indigenous green hydrogen facility.
   • JNPT: Phase 2 of Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal commenced, doubling its capacity to be India’s largest container port.
   • Investment of nearly ₹70,000 crore towards enhancing domestic capacity, financing options, and creating jobs in shipbuilding.

3. Economic Indicators:

   • Major ports handled the highest cargo volumes in 2024–25.
   • Cargo movement on inland waterways increased by 700%, with operational waterways expanding from 3 to 32.
   • The net annual surplus of Indian ports has increased ninefold over the past decade.
   • Average container dwell time improved to under 3 days, and vessel turnaround time reduced from 96 hours to 48 hours.
   • India’s position improved in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index.

4. Maritime Workforce:

   • Growth in the number of Indian seafarers from 1.25 lakh to over 3 lakh, ranking among the top three globally.

Strategic Vision:

• Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047:

  • Four pillars: Port-led development, fishing and shipbuilding, seamless logistics, and maritime skill-building.
  • Aim to transform India into a leading maritime power.

• Investment and Infrastructure:

  • Commitment to building a new port in Vadhavan, Maharashtra at a cost of ₹76,000 crore and quadrupling the capacity of existing major ports.

International Engagement:

• India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor to redefine trade routes and enhance clean energy logistics.
• Commitment to empower Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries through technology and infrastructure.

Summary of the Maritime Sector Transformation:

• The maritime sector is undergoing a significant transformation, focusing on enhanced efficiency, technological integration, and ecological sustainability.
• The Maritime Leaders Conclave serves as a platform for global cooperation, inviting investment and expertise to support India's maritime ambitions.
• The government's reforms are designed to establish India as a pivotal player in global maritime trade, emphasizing resilience amidst global trade disruptions.

This comprehensive framework highlights India's escalating role in the maritime domain, positioning it as a beacon of stability and strategic autonomy in global economic dealings.