India’s Maritime Ambitions Surge: Container Handling Capacity to Double in Five Years: Sonowal
India’s maritime sector is set for a major transformation, with container handling capacity expected to double over the next five years. This ambitious plan, announced by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, marks a significant leap toward achieving the government’s vision of positioning India as a global maritime powerhouse.
At a press conference, Sonowal outlined the Ministry’s achievements in the first 100 days and laid out a roadmap for future developments. With key milestones already reached, including developing new ports and job creation initiatives, the Ministry aims to align its efforts with two major national visions: Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amritkaal Vision 2047.
A Maritime Revolution Under Modi’s Leadership
Sonowal attributed the success and progress of the maritime sector to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under his guidance, the “Transformation through Transportation” mantra has driven India’s maritime growth, focusing on building sustainable infrastructure and creating economic opportunities across the nation.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s focus on holistic development and his mantra of ‘Transformation through Transportation’ are creating a paradigm shift in India’s maritime sector,” Sonowal emphasized. “The government’s commitment to strengthening maritime infrastructure is paving the way for unprecedented economic growth and generating significant employment opportunities across the country. Waterways are becoming the new highways of India.”
Doubling Container Handling Capacity
One of the most ambitious projects outlined during the press conference is the Ministry’s goal to increase container handling capacity to 40 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) within five years. This massive expansion will create an estimated two million new jobs nationwide, transforming the country’s shipping and logistics landscape.
Highlighting the potential of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Sonowal revealed that the port’s handling capacity would increase from 6.6 million TEUs to 10 million TEUs, contributing significantly to the country’s overall container handling growth.
In addition to this, the establishment of the Vadhvan Port marks a significant milestone. As India’s first major port project of the 21st century, Vadhvan Port is expected to become one of the largest all-weather deep-water ports in the world, with a capacity of 298 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA). Once operational, the port will create 1.2 million jobs and propel an Indian port into the top 10 global container ports, improving international shipping connectivity and reducing transit times and costs.
Infrastructure Development and Clean Energy Focus
The Ministry is also working on other critical infrastructure projects to enhance the nation’s shipbuilding and ship repair capacity. Dedicated clusters are being developed across Maharashtra, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Gujarat, aimed at promoting shipbuilding, ship repair, and maritime services. Additionally, the Ministry has earmarked over 3,900 acres at Kandla and VOC Port for the establishment of hydrogen manufacturing hubs, positioning India at the forefront of the clean energy revolution.
These initiatives underline the Ministry’s broader focus on sustainability. As part of its greening efforts, the Ministry launched the Green Tug Transition Programme, aimed at promoting cleaner fuels and reducing emissions in maritime transport. Further, land has been allocated for green hydrogen projects at Deendayal Port, marking a decisive step towards promoting environmentally friendly shipping practices.
Key Upcoming Projects: The Great Ocean Conference and Galathea Bay Port
Looking ahead, Sonowal announced the eagerly awaited ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Ocean Conference,’ set to take place in Mumbai this November. The conference will emphasize ocean sustainability and the blue economy, bringing together global stakeholders to discuss maritime innovation and sustainability.
Another key project on the horizon is the International Container Transshipment Port (ICTP) at Galathea Bay in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This transhipment hub, located in the strategically important Great Nicobar Island, will play a crucial role in positioning India as a key player in global shipping, allowing for faster and more efficient container movement between international shipping routes.
Ease of Doing Business and Enhancing Competitiveness
To further enhance the efficiency and global competitiveness of Indian ports, the Ministry has introduced several key reforms. The establishment of the Indian Maritime Centre (IMC) and the Indian International Maritime Dispute Resolution Centre (IIMDRC) will streamline policy implementation and help resolve maritime disputes faster.
Sonowal also mentioned the recent commencement of operations at Cochin Shipyard’s International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF). Equipped with state-of-the-art ship lifts and workstations, this facility will boost India’s presence in the global ship repair market.
These efforts are part of a broader push to improve the ease of doing business in India’s maritime sector. The Sagar Aankalan Guidelines, which benchmark port performance, have been instrumental in enhancing port efficiency and attracting international shipping companies.
Employment Creation and Tourism Growth
Apart from container handling and infrastructure expansion, the Ministry’s efforts are geared towards employment generation and tourism development. The newly operationalized International Cruise Terminal at Visakhapatnam is expected to boost domestic and international maritime tourism, providing a fresh impetus to the industry.
Sonowal further emphasized the importance of cruise tourism, noting that the upcoming Mormugao Port cruise terminal in Goa will cater to the growing demand for cruise travel, cementing India’s position as a premier cruising destination under the newly launched Cruise India Mission.
Reforms and Sustainability for the Future
In line with the government’s focus on self-reliance, the Ministry has expanded the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy and established the Maritime Development Fund to promote domestic ship ownership and encourage private investment in the shipbuilding industry. As part of its sustainability drive, the Ministry has also introduced the Harit Nauka Scheme, which promotes the use of green fuels in inland vessels.
Looking forward, Sonowal highlighted several legislative reforms that will further strengthen India’s maritime framework. The Merchant Shipping Bill, currently under consideration, incorporates international best practices for vessel safety, marine pollution control, and maritime liabilities. Meanwhile, the Coastal Shipping Bill aims to promote competitiveness in coastal shipping, reduce transportation costs, and integrate maritime transport with inland waterways.
Conclusion: India’s Path to Maritime Powerhouse
As Sonowal concluded, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, we remain committed to transforming India’s maritime sector. With our focus on enhancing infrastructure, ease of doing business, and sustainability, we are driving the country toward becoming a global maritime powerhouse.”
With an ambitious vision, significant investments in infrastructure, and a clear focus on sustainability, India is well on its way to becoming a leading player in the global maritime industry, aligning itself with the goals of the Maritime India Vision 2030 and beyond.
