India Sets Ambitious Maritime Goals for 2047 with Major Investments

India has announced its ambitious plans to emerge as a global leader in the maritime sector by 2047, with projected investments of Rs 80-lakh crore and the creation of 1.5 crore jobs. This announcement was made by Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, during a press conference in Mumbai on Tuesday.

Sonowal emphasized that the government is committed to promoting green shipping as part of the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision. He stated, “India’s maritime growth is anchored on prosperity, sustainability, and pride in heritage, aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.” This vision aims to bolster India’s maritime infrastructure and capabilities in the coming decades.

The announcement comes ahead of the India Maritime Week (IMW), which is set to take place from October 27 to 31 at the Nesco Exhibition Centre in Goregaon, Mumbai. The event will be hosted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways in collaboration with the Indian Ports Association and other stakeholders. It aims to showcase India’s maritime potential and facilitate international partnerships.

India is also striving to secure its position among the top ten maritime nations by 2030, according to Union Minister Shantanu Thakur. The government is focused on enhancing global maritime partnerships, attracting investments, and fostering innovation within the sector.

“The vision is already translating into results,” Sonowal noted. He highlighted significant progress, including an eightfold increase in cargo movement on inland waterways since 2014, a 60% reduction in turnaround time at major ports, and over Rs 5.5 lakh crore allocated for Sagarmala projects, which aim to improve coastal logistics. Currently, India supplies 12% of the world’s seafarers, underscoring its scale and expertise in maritime skills.

The Minister further assured that all twelve major ports in India are on track to achieve full carbon neutrality by 2047, with green energy transition targets already in progress for 2035. He emphasized the country’s commitment to a sustainable and technology-driven maritime future.

The upcoming IMW is expected to attract participation from over 100,000 delegates and 500 exhibitors from more than 100 countries. Ministerial delegations from nations such as Singapore, the UAE, South Korea, Japan, and Denmark will also be in attendance. The event will feature key international organizations, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and UNESCAP, as well as major industry players like Adani Ports and Logistics, Cochin Shipyard, and the Paradip Port Authority.

As India embarks on this transformative journey, the government’s focus on expanding its maritime capabilities indicates a significant shift in the country’s economic landscape, with the potential to create vast employment opportunities and enhance international competitiveness in the maritime domain.