Shri Gadkari emphasized that India’s vast maritime ecosystem including ports, shipbuilding, and logistics presents huge investment opportunities for both domestic and international investors. He noted that the government’s success in mobilizing ₹1.4 lakh crore under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) through innovative models such as Toll Operate Transfer (ToT), Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) could serve as a model for the maritime industry.
“Private participation in road infrastructure rose from 10% to 35% through these mechanisms. A similar approach in ship financing can enhance efficiency, ensure timely project execution, and reduce the government’s financial load,” Gadkari stated.
Launching the India Maritime Report 2025–26
During the event, Shri Gadkari launched the CMEG (RIS) India Maritime Report 2025–26, titled “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision: India’s Maritime Strides.” The report outlines India’s progress under the Sagarmala initiative, highlighting infrastructure modernization, investment in shipbuilding, and enhanced port connectivity as key growth drivers.
The report aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Sagarmala 2.0 vision, which aims to expand the maritime economy by focusing on sustainable port-led development, ship repair, coastal trade, and inland waterways.
Collaborative Approach for Maritime Growth
Gadkari acknowledged the efforts of Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, in driving the modernization of India’s maritime infrastructure. He credited Sonowal for advancing the Sagarmala 2.0 agenda, which promotes shipbuilding, recycling, and port efficiency through sustainable development practices.
Highlighting the synergy between government and industry, Gadkari stressed the need for transparent governance and time-bound project execution to build global confidence in India’s maritime capabilities. “With private innovation, transparent processes, and effective execution, India can emerge as a global maritime leader,” he remarked.
Driving Maritime Leadership through Innovation
Experts at the conference agreed that adopting innovative ship financing mechanisms could significantly accelerate India’s journey toward maritime self-reliance. By leveraging PPP and InvIT frameworks, India aims to reduce dependence on foreign funding, encourage indigenous shipbuilding, and enhance competitiveness in global shipping markets.
As India Maritime Week 2025 continues in Mumbai, industry leaders, policymakers, and investors are expected to deliberate on policy frameworks, green financing, and digital transformation in shipping, marking a new era of strategic maritime expansion.