India is preparing to roll out a set of around 20 reforms aimed at strengthening its maritime sector, improving regulatory oversight, and reducing logistics costs.
The measures, expected in the early phase of FY27, include the creation of a maritime regulator, revamped shipbuilding incentives, and steps to increase the country’s shipping tonnage.
A key proposal involves expanding the role of the Directorate General of Shipping into a strengthened regulatory body with wider oversight on safety, training, and ship registration. The government is also working on new shipbuilding guidelines and cluster-based development to enhance domestic capacity.
The plan includes operationalising a ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund to provide long-term, low-cost financing for shipbuilding and infrastructure. Additional measures aim to promote Indian-flagged vessels, simplify regulations, and improve ease of doing business.
The reforms align with broader initiatives to modernise ports, expand coastal shipping, and strengthen India’s position in global maritime trade.
