How Does PM Modi’s Maritime Vision Showcase India’s Global Aspirations?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's maritime vision is aimed at establishing India as a global maritime hub by 2047.
- Significant investments, approximately Rs 70,000 crore, have been earmarked for shipbuilding.
- The maritime sector has seen a doubling of port capacity and increased cargo handling.
- Modern legislation has replaced outdated maritime laws to align with industry needs.
- Collaborative projects like Vadhwan Port and Vizhinjam Port showcase successful partnerships.
New Delhi, Oct 29 (NationPress) The maritime landscape of India has witnessed an extraordinary evolution over the last ten years, driven by the steadfast leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stated Malini V. Shankar, Vice Chancellor of the Indian Maritime University (IMU), during the Indian Maritime Week 2025 held in Mumbai on Wednesday.
Dr. Shankar emphasized the Prime Minister’s visionary approach, noting that since 2016, India has been on a clear trajectory to emerge as a significant force in the global maritime sector.
“The commitment of the Prime Minister to advancing India’s maritime industry is both robust and unequivocal. His vision for 2047 is to position India as a global maritime hub through innovation and economic development,” she shared with IANS.
She pointed out that the creation of new ports, the enhancement of coastal trade, and the fortification of logistics frameworks have markedly elevated India’s trade capabilities. The improved rail connections to the steel, fertilizer, and mining sectors have facilitated cargo movement and fostered international confidence, she observed.
Regarding the Indian Maritime Week 2025, Dr. Shankar remarked that the event “exceeded all expectations” and was among the largest ever organized, possibly since India's Independence.
“In 2016, we hosted the maritime investment summit, which largely focused on investment opportunities. Over the past decade, the maritime sector has gained significant momentum—port capacity has doubled, cargo handling has surged, and the sector is experiencing a new wave of expansion,” she stated.
She mentioned that approximately Rs 70,000 crore has been allocated for shipbuilding, with five outdated maritime laws being replaced with contemporary legislation to meet the sector's evolving demands.
On Prime Minister Modi’s speech at the event, she commented, “All initiatives undertaken align with what was envisioned and documented, showcasing India’s dedication to execution rather than mere planning.”
She also applauded the collaborative efforts in developing major projects such as Vadhwan Port in Maharashtra and Vizhinjam Port in Kerala, referring to them as “exemplary instances” of Centre-state collaboration in the maritime domain.