Govt plans massive port capacity boost to 10,000 MTPA by 2047, aiming for global maritime leadership via new ports & reforms.
The Indian government has unveiled a major strategic push to establish the nation as a global maritime leader by 2047. Central to this ambition is a plan to dramatically expand India’s port capacity nearly fourfold, from the current ~2,600 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to a target of 10,000 MTPA within the next 22 years.
According to information provided by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, in a Lok Sabha reply, this ambitious goal will be achieved through a multi-pronged strategy. Key initiatives include developing new ports with deeper drafts, increasing the draft of existing ports, establishing port clusters and transshipment hubs, implementing port automation, encouraging greater private sector participation, and strengthening policy support.
To bolster these efforts, the government has implemented significant legislative reforms, including the Major Port Authorities Act, 2021; Marine Aids to Navigation Act, 2021; Inland Vessels Act, 2021; Relaxation of Cabotage Rules, 2018; Recycling of Ships Act, 2019; and the National Waterways Act, 2016, among others. Policies addressing stressed PPP projects and land allocation for port-dependent industries are also in place.
Sustainability is a key focus, with the Ministry launching the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) to promote eco-friendly tugboats. Furthermore, the ‘HaritSagar’ guidelines for major ports and ‘Harit Nauka’ guidelines for inland vessels aim to drive the adoption of greener technologies across the maritime sector.
India is actively aligning its maritime policies with international best practices through high-profile events like the Global Maritime India Summit and regular consultations with global leaders and stakeholders, ensuring its position as a significant player on the world maritime stage.
Source: PIB
