Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced on Tuesday (October 14, 2025) that India is setting its sights on a massive ₹80 lakh crore in maritime investments and creating 1.5 crore new jobs by 2047. This ambitious plan is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at revolutionizing the sector. The announcement was made during a press conference in Mumbai, held in collaboration with the Indian Ports Association (IPA), ahead of the much-anticipated India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled from October 27 to 31.
Fostering Global Partnerships
Minister Sonowal emphasized that the maritime sector is undergoing a significant transformation to align with the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). The nation anticipates substantial investments, the development of world-class infrastructure, and a boost in global competitiveness across the blue economy by 2047. He highlighted that this initiative opens extensive opportunities for international collaboration, including a substantial $1 trillion maritime investment roadmap.
A Grand Showcase: India Maritime Week 2025
The upcoming India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025 is set to be a landmark event, drawing over one lakh delegates and 500 exhibitors from more than 100 countries. Esteemed ministerial delegations from nations like Singapore, the UAE, South Korea, Japan, and Denmark are expected to attend. Key international bodies such as the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and UNESCAP will also participate, alongside prominent Indian states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, and major industry players including Adani Ports and Logistics, Cochin Shipyard, and Paradip Port Authority.
Sonowal further elaborated on India’s recent strides, noting an eightfold increase in cargo movement on inland waterways since 2014. He proudly stated that turnaround times at major ports have seen a remarkable 60% reduction, while Sagarmala projects worth over ₹5.5 lakh crore are actively reshaping coastal logistics. India’s growing influence in the global maritime workforce is evident, as it now contributes 12% of the world’s seafarers, underscoring both its scale and leadership in maritime skills.
Looking ahead, the Union Minister affirmed that all 12 major ports are projected to achieve carbon neutrality by 2047, with green energy transition targets for 2035 already underway. This steadfast commitment underscores a strategic shift towards a sustainable and technologically advanced maritime future for India.