India’s Maritime Reforms Boost Port Efficiency and Global Competitiveness: Minister Sonowal
India is making significant strides in transforming its maritime sector, with comprehensive reforms aimed at expanding port infrastructure, enhancing ease of doing business, and promoting sustainable shipping practices, according to Sarbananda Sonowal, India’s Minister of Shipping, Ports, and Waterways. Speaking at the Singapore Maritime Week, held from March 24-28, Sonowal highlighted how these efforts are yielding tangible results: improved port efficiency, increased cargo flows, and growing investor confidence.
Sonowal outlined India’s ambitious goal to position itself as a credible alternative in the global shipbuilding industry. “Through policy incentives, ease of doing business, and infrastructure enhancement, we are laying the foundation for India to emerge as one of the top five shipbuilding nations by 2047,” he declared. This vision is underpinned by a $20 billion investment in infrastructure development, focusing on multi-modal logistics, port connectivity, and trade facilitation.
Green and Sustainable Maritime Future
A key pillar of India’s maritime strategy is sustainability. Sonowal emphasized the country’s commitment to a “Green and Sustainable Maritime Future,” noting that Indian ports are adopting green infrastructure and encouraging low-emission shipping. “Indian shipyards are already innovating in the development of low-carbon vessels,” he said, signaling India’s intent to lead in eco-friendly maritime technology.
To support this transition, India is establishing three Green Hydrogen Hub Ports at Kandla, Tuticorin, and Paradip. These hubs will pioneer the production of green hydrogen and its derivatives, as well as the use of alternative fuels in shipping. Additionally, Sonowal announced plans for Green Shipping Corridors, including the proposed India-Singapore Green and Digital Corridor. “This aligns with our shared focus on clean energy, smart logistics, and sustainability,” he said, highlighting the potential for collaboration with Singapore, a global maritime leader.
Digitalization and Innovation
Digitalization is another cornerstone of India’s maritime transformation. Sonowal stressed the need for “Digitalization and Innovation for Future-Ready Shipping,” pointing to initiatives like the development of Virtual Trade Corridors with partners such as the UAE and Singapore. These corridors will digitally connect ports, streamlining cargo movement and reducing bottlenecks.
The minister also spotlighted the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), a duty-free zone evolving into a global maritime finance and ship leasing hub. “With a favorable tax and regulatory ecosystem, GIFT City offers seamless access to global capital markets, making it an attractive destination for maritime investment,” he noted.
Strategic Corridors and Global Ambitions
India’s maritime reforms extend beyond its shores, with plans to strengthen global trade routes. Sonowal outlined the development of strategic corridors such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), the Eastern Maritime Corridor, and the International North-South Transport Corridor. “These initiatives will ensure more diversified and secure trade routes across continents,” he said, addressing the fragility of supply chains exposed by recent global events.
Currently, Indian ports handle about 6% of global cargo, a share Sonowal expects to rise to 15% by 2047. To support this growth, India is launching a Maritime Development Fund to finance fleet expansion, shipyard modernization, and strategic infrastructure projects. “This fund will be instrumental in realizing our long-term vision,” he added.
Oceans as Unifiers
In a poignant remark, Sonowal underscored the unifying power of the seas: “Let us remember: oceans do not divide us—they unite us. Together, we can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities and create a maritime world that serves all of humanity.” His presentation at Singapore Maritime Week outlined a roadmap that blends economic ambition with environmental responsibility and technological innovation.
Singapore Visit and Global Partnerships
Sonowal’s three-day visit to Singapore is part of India’s broader effort to forge international partnerships. Amidst discussions with maritime stakeholders, he is exploring opportunities for collaboration, particularly in light of recent disruptions to global supply chains. Singapore, with its advanced port ecosystem, is a natural partner for India’s maritime aspirations.
India’s reforms are already bearing fruit. Enhanced port efficiency and stronger cargo flows are boosting investor confidence, positioning the country as an emerging powerhouse in the global maritime landscape. As Sonowal concluded, “India is addressing challenges with long-term, structural solutions. Our ports are not just gateways—they are engines of growth, sustainability, and global connectivity.”
With a clear vision and substantial investments, India’s maritime sector is on course to play a transformative role in the nation’s economic rise and its integration into the global trade network.
