Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has stated that India’s maritime sector has undergone a significant transformation over the past 12 years, emerging as a key engine of economic growth driven by policy reforms, infrastructure development, and strategic investments.
Highlighting the progress, the minister noted that the sector is playing an increasingly critical role in supporting trade, logistics, and overall economic expansion, aligned with the broader vision of making India a global maritime power.
He emphasised that the government’s sustained focus on modernising port infrastructure, enhancing coastal shipping, and strengthening maritime logistics has contributed to the sector’s rapid growth trajectory. These efforts are also aimed at improving efficiency, reducing logistics costs, and boosting India’s competitiveness in global trade.
The minister further pointed out that India is steadily moving toward becoming one of the top global maritime nations, supported by initiatives that promote the blue economy, shipbuilding, and port-led industrial development.
In recent years, the maritime sector has witnessed increased emphasis on capacity expansion, policy support, and international collaboration, enabling it to adapt to evolving global supply chain dynamics. The government’s approach has focused on creating a robust and resilient maritime ecosystem, integrating ports, shipping, and inland waterways into a unified logistics framework.
The transformation is also backed by long-term strategic programmes aimed at increasing port capacity, attracting investments, and generating employment opportunities, positioning the sector as a major contributor to India’s economic growth story.
The statement underscores the growing importance of maritime infrastructure in India’s development agenda, with continued investments and reforms expected to further strengthen the country’s position in the global shipping and logistics landscape.
