India Sets Ambitious Goal to Be Among Top Five Maritime Nations by 2047

India Sets Ambitious Goal to Be Among Top Five Maritime Nations by 2047

New Delhi: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has unveiled an ambitious vision for India’s maritime sector, declaring that the country aims to rank among the top five maritime nations in the world by 2047. Speaking at an event in New Delhi, Sonowal emphasized India’s remarkable progress in recent years, especially in cargo operations, and highlighted the nation’s readiness to host large international cruise ships due to modernized port facilities.

Transforming India’s Maritime Landscape

“Our performance in cargo handling has been exemplary over the last decade,” Sonowal said, pointing to the significant strides made in enhancing port infrastructure and operational efficiency. According to the minister, India’s ports have become a vital part of global supply chains, supporting economic growth and driving trade. “With sustained efforts, we are positioning India as a leading maritime hub,” he added.

In recent years, India has undertaken extensive measures to modernize its ports and waterways, aiming to increase cargo handling capacity and improve logistics efficiency. Major initiatives such as the Sagarmala programme have focused on port-led development, including modernising existing ports, constructing new ports, and establishing coastal economic zones.

These efforts have resulted in significant milestones. India’s ports collectively handled over 1.4 billion metric tonnes of cargo in the last financial year, a substantial increase from previous years. The country’s shipping fleet has also grown, with Indian-owned vessels now accounting for a notable share of global shipping tonnage.

A Cruise Industry on the Rise

Sonowal also highlighted India’s growing prominence as a cruise tourism destination, thanks to enhanced port facilities and streamlined policies. “Large international cruise ships are now coming to India. This reflects the confidence global operators have in our capabilities,” he said. The government has been working to create a cruise-friendly ecosystem by upgrading passenger terminals, easing customs processes, and promoting Indian ports as attractive destinations.

According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, India has seen a steady increase in cruise traffic, with over 400 cruise ships calling at Indian ports in the past year. Key ports such as Mumbai, Kochi, and Goa have emerged as popular stops for luxury liners, offering unique experiences to international tourists.

To further boost cruise tourism, the government has launched initiatives like the National Cruise Tourism Policy and collaborated with private players to develop modern cruise terminals. These efforts aim to attract two million cruise tourists annually by 2030, creating jobs and contributing significantly to the economy.

The Vision for 2047

India’s maritime ambitions are part of a broader vision to transform the country into a developed nation by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of its independence. Sonowal outlined several key objectives to achieve this goal, including:

• Expanding Port Capacity: Increasing the capacity of major and minor ports to meet growing trade demands.
• Promoting Green Shipping: Adopting sustainable practices to reduce the carbon footprint of maritime operations.
• Developing Inland Waterways: Enhancing the use of rivers for cargo and passenger transport to reduce dependence on road and rail networks.
• Fostering Innovation: Encouraging research and development in maritime technologies, including automation and digitization.

“By 2047, we envision India as a global leader in maritime trade, with state-of-the-art ports, a thriving cruise industry, and a robust shipping sector,” Sonowal said. He emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, industry stakeholders, and international partners to realize this vision.

Challenges Ahead

While India’s maritime sector has made significant progress, challenges remain. The country needs to address issues such as port congestion, high logistics costs, and the environmental impact of shipping activities. Experts have also called for increased investment in maritime education and training to build a skilled workforce capable of meeting future demands.

Additionally, global uncertainties such as fluctuating trade volumes and geopolitical tensions could impact India’s maritime growth. To mitigate these risks, the government is focusing on diversifying trade routes and strengthening relationships with key trading partners.

Global Recognition

India’s maritime initiatives have garnered international attention, with several global organizations recognizing the country’s efforts. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has lauded India’s commitment to sustainable shipping, while major shipping lines have praised the operational efficiency of Indian ports.

“India is emerging as a trusted partner in the global maritime community,” Sonowal noted. “Our strategic location, coupled with our focus on modernization and sustainability, makes us an attractive destination for global trade and investment.”

A Bright Future

As India charts its course towards becoming a top maritime nation, the government remains committed to fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability. With ambitious goals and a clear roadmap, the country is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global maritime trade.

“The journey to 2047 will be challenging but rewarding,” Sonowal concluded. “Together, we can realize the dream of making India a maritime superpower.”