India sets a goal to complete 150 maritime projects by September 2025, paving the way for a self-reliant and sustainable shipping sector.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to transform India’s maritime sector, setting a goal to complete 150 projects by September 2025. The announcement was made at the Chintan Shivir 2025, a two-day strategic summit held in Srinagar, where Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal reviewed ₹2 trillion worth of ongoing projects and outlined key initiatives to strengthen India’s position in global shipping.

Key Announcements from Chintan Shivir 2025

• 150 projects identified for completion by September 6, 2025.
• India aims to be among the Top 5 Shipbuilding Nations by 2047 with an additional 4 million Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) capacity.
• Bharat Container Shipping Line to be launched under the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI).
• Major ports to tender for at least one Green Tug within the next three months.
• Harbour Craft Green Transition Programme to promote clean energy in ports.
• Kandla-Tuticorin Green Shipping Corridor to be developed in partnership with SCI, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VoCPA).
• ₹100 crore investment in National Waterways in Jammu & Kashmir to enhance inland water transport.
• Mumbai International Cruise Terminal to commence operations by April 2025.
• Sagarmala Digital Centre of Excellence to drive digital transformation in maritime operations.
• Sagarmala Startup & Innovation Initiative (S2I2) and Maritime Innovation Hubs to be established.
• India Ports Services Limited (IPSL) to enhance efficiency across all major ports.

Vision for a Self-Reliant Maritime Sector

Shri Sonowal emphasised that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India’s maritime industry has witnessed unprecedented growth. “We are committed to making India a global maritime powerhouse. By fostering innovation, green shipping, and digitalisation, we are laying the foundation for Atmanirbhar Bharat in the maritime sector,” he stated.

A landmark MoU was also signed between the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Jammu & Kashmir government to develop inland water transport in the region. This ₹100 crore investment will enhance connectivity and boost river tourism along National Waterways 26 (Chenab), 49 (Jhelum), and 84 (Ravi).

The Chintan Shivir concluded with a call for industry collaboration to modernise port operations, integrate AI-driven solutions, and enhance global competitiveness, ensuring India’s emergence as a major player in the Blue Economy.

Source: PIB