India Charts Path to Maritime Superpower with ₹80 Lakh Cr Vision for 2047

One of the most ambitious projects is the upcoming ₹76,000 crore Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra, projected to become one of the world’s top 10 container ports, generating 12 lakh jobs.

 

India’s maritime sector is undergoing a historic transformation, positioning the nation to emerge as a global maritime superpower by 2047. With massive investments, modern infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on sustainability, the government is leveraging the potential of its coasts and waterways to drive economic growth, job creation, and environmental stewardship—all aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, announced that under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, India is expected to:

• Attract investments worth ₹80 lakh crore.

• Generate over 1.5 crore jobs.

• Accelerate the transition to green shipping and sustainable practices.

“India’s maritime growth story is about prosperity, sustainability, and pride in our heritage,” the Minister said. “From efficient ports to digital shipping, every initiative reflects Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision of combining economic strength with environmental responsibility.”

Sagarmala and Mega Projects

At the heart of this transformation lies the Sagarmala Programme, comprising 840 projects worth ₹5.8 lakh crore to be implemented by 2035. Already, 272 projects worth ₹1.41 lakh crore have been completed.

One of the most ambitious projects is the upcoming ₹76,000 crore Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra, projected to become one of the world’s top 10 container ports, generating 12 lakh jobs.

India’s major ports have also achieved record efficiency, reducing turnaround time for ships to 0.9 days—faster than benchmarks in the U.S., Germany, and Singapore. Nine Indian ports are now ranked among the world’s top 100 ports.

Reforms and Maritime Development Fund

To attract investment and modernise the sector, the government has enacted five landmark legislations, creating a globally aligned, investor-friendly framework.

The ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund (MDF) offers incentives such as:

• Infrastructure status for large vessels.

• Tonnage tax benefits for inland vessels.

• Incentives for shipbuilding and ship repair.

These measures are aimed at boosting competitiveness, global alignment, and long-term sustainability.

Kerala: A Rising Maritime Hub

Kerala has emerged as a key driver of India’s maritime resurgence.

• The Vizhinjam International Seaport, operational since 2024, is India’s first fully automated transshipment hub, already handling 10.6 lakh TEUs and nearly 500 ships.

• The Cochin Shipyard, builder of INS Vikrant, is expanding its global presence in shipbuilding and repair.

• The Cochin Port and Vallarpadam Transshipment Terminal are slated for expansion to meet rising cargo flows.

Under Sagarmala, 54 projects worth ₹24,000 crore are underway in Kerala, of which 20 are complete, including modernised fishing harbours in Kochi, Kannur, and Thrissur, benefiting thousands of fishermen.

Urban Connectivity and Tourism Boost

Kerala is also home to the Kochi Water Metro, Asia’s largest integrated water transport system, with 78 electric-hybrid vessels connecting 10 island communities.

• National Waterway 3 and the International Cruise Terminal in Kochi are driving tourism and logistics.

• In just three years, the terminal welcomed 105 cruise ships and 1.4 lakh passengers, highlighting Kerala’s role as a cruise tourism hub.

India Maritime Week 2025

The upcoming India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai this October will serve as a platform for forging stronger international partnerships and securing fresh investment inflows. Global stakeholders will deliberate on:

• Decarbonisation of shipping.

• Supply chain resilience.

• Cybersecurity in maritime trade.

• Sustainable shipping models.

A New Era of Maritime Glory

“Kerala anchors India’s vision of becoming a maritime superpower by 2047,” Shri Sonowal said. “Its success proves that India can combine tradition with technology, history with modernity, to power our rise as a maritime leader.”

The government’s comprehensive reforms, large-scale projects, and strategic vision are shaping India’s maritime sector into a force multiplier for economic growth, global trade competitiveness, and environmental sustainability, ensuring the nation sails confidently towards its Amrit Kaal goals.