The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) has set an ambitious goal to complete 150 key projects by September 2025, reaffirming its commitment to transforming India’s maritime sector. This decision was announced during the ‘Chintan Shivir, 2025’ in Srinagar, a two-day strategic gathering aimed at evaluating progress and exploring new solutions for the country’s Blue Economy.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal led discussions at the event, where he reviewed ongoing projects worth ₹2 trillion and outlined India’s long-term vision to become one of the world’s top five shipbuilding nations by 2047. With an additional shipbuilding capacity of 4 million Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) in sight, the government is determined to make India a global maritime powerhouse.
A host of key initiatives were unveiled at the Chintan Shivir, reflecting the government’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and self-reliance. The Bharat Container Shipping Line will be established under the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), ensuring that India has a stronger presence in the global shipping industry. Additionally, all major ports have been directed to tender for at least one Green Tug within the next three months, marking a major step toward eco-friendly port operations. The Harbour Craft Green Transition Programme will further promote clean energy solutions across Indian ports.
Another major highlight is the development of the Coastal Green Shipping Corridor, with the Kandla-Tuticorin route as the first of its kind, in collaboration with SCI, the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VoCPA). To boost inland water transport and connectivity, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) will invest ₹100 crore in three National Waterways in Jammu & Kashmir. These efforts align with the broader vision of the ‘Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision (MAKV) 2047’ and the ‘Viksit Bharat’ mission, ensuring holistic growth for India’s shipping sector.
The event also saw the signing of a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the IWAI and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. This agreement will facilitate river cruise tourism and infrastructure development on three major waterways—River Chenab (NW-26), River Jhelum (NW-49), and River Ravi (NW-84)—with an investment of ₹100 crore. The initiative is expected to create employment opportunities and boost regional economic growth.
Beyond infrastructure, the maritime sector is embracing digital transformation with the establishment of the Sagarmala Digital Centre of Excellence, in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC). This initiative will streamline port operations, enhance efficiency, and promote ease of doing business. Additionally, the Sagarmala Startup and Innovation Initiative (S2I2) will be launched to encourage fresh ideas and entrepreneurial ventures in the maritime industry.
Union Minister Sonowal emphasized that the Chintan Shivir was not just about project reviews but also about fostering gratitude, learning from the past, and planning for the future. He reiterated India’s determination to achieve self-reliance in the maritime sector, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’
Minister of State Shantanu Thakur highlighted the tremendous progress made in inland waterway cargo movement, which has grown by 320% since 2014. He underscored the need to integrate digitalization, artificial intelligence, and global best practices to create a world-class maritime industry.
The discussions on the second day of the Chintan Shivir revolved around strengthening shipbuilding and repair capabilities, improving port connectivity, and making policy reforms to ensure seamless operations. Senior officials from the ministry, representatives from key maritime organizations, and industry experts participated in these deliberations, making it a crucial step in India’s journey toward maritime excellence.
As India charts its course towards a self-sufficient and globally competitive maritime sector, the commitments made at the Chintan Shivir reflect a well-rounded approach—balancing economic growth, sustainability, and technological advancement. These initiatives signal a promising future for India’s ports, shipping industry, and inland waterways, setting the stage for long-term prosperity in the sector.
