Govt Sets Target to Complete 150 Maritime Projects by September 2025
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, has set a goal to complete at least 150 key maritime projects by September 2025. The decision came after reviewing ongoing projects worth ₹2 trillion and holding consultations with experts at the Ministry’s Chintan Shivir.
The focus is on strengthening shipbuilding and repair capabilities, enhancing digital and financial maritime solutions, and promoting green and sustainable shipping. The projects align with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision (MAKV) 2047, aiming to position India among the world’s top five shipbuilding nations with an additional capacity of 4 million GRT.
Key initiatives include the launch of Bharat Container Shipping Line under SCI, a Green Tug tendering drive at major ports within three months, and the creation of a Coastal Green Shipping Corridor between Kandla and Tuticorin. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) will invest ₹100 crore to develop three National Waterways in Jammu & Kashmir.
Other major plans involve the establishment of India Ports Services Limited (IPSL) as a national service platform for ports, launching the Sagarmala Startup and Innovation Initiative (S2I2), and setting up Maritime Innovation Hubs. The Mumbai International Cruise Terminal is set to begin operations by April 2025. A Sagarmala Digital Centre of Excellence, in collaboration with C-DAC, will also be launched to drive digital transformation in the maritime sector.
These initiatives are aimed at enhancing port competitiveness, attracting investments, and making India a global maritime powerhouse in line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision.
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India’s maritime sector has witnessed remarkable growth. Our commitment to transforming ports and waterways remains unwavering. Chintan Shivir 2025 is a crucial platform to set new benchmarks, review targets, and ensure that this sector continues to drive economic progress. At this Chintan Shivir, we have made remarkable progress as we have charted the map for the growth of maritime sector of the country towards realisation of the goal of Viksit Bharat. Innovative programmes like Sagarmala Start Up Innovation Initiative with Maritime Innovation Hubs, Harbour Craft Green Transition Program, Sagarmala Digital Centre of Excellence among others will be set up to amp up efficiency in the sector. With an aim to realise the vision of PM Narendra Modi ji’s Atmanirbhar Bharat, we have decided to set up Bharat Container Shipping Line. India is poised to be among the top 5 shipbuilding countries in the world by 2047. We are aiming to expand the shipbuilding industry to be able to construct ships with an additional Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) of 4 million tons.”
