Is India Committing to a Greener, Cleaner Maritime Future?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India is committed to a sustainable maritime future.
- Five million tonnes of green hydrogen production target by 2030.
- Major ports will be transformed into Green Hydrogen hubs.
- Significant investments are earmarked for maritime initiatives.
- Innovative programs are set to reshape the maritime landscape.
New Delhi, Dec 15 (NationPress) India is on the brink of a revolutionary maritime journey, leveraging its extensive coastline, expanding industrial capabilities, and strategic location to enhance trade and connectivity while establishing a legacy of sustainability and resilience, as per an official announcement on Monday.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has outlined the ‘Maritime India Vision 2030,’ which serves as a framework for empowering India’s maritime sector, aiming for a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future.
The evolution of maritime transport relies on clean fuels such as green hydrogen, ammonia, biofuels, and LNG.
In this regard, India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission is pioneering the shift towards zero-emission fuels, ensuring that our ports contribute not only to trade but also to a sustainable future, according to the statement.
The National Green Hydrogen Mission has been initiated to reduce carbon emissions and position India as a global frontrunner in green hydrogen.
By 2030, the objective is to generate 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually, attracting investments of Rs 8 lakh crore, generating 6 lakh jobs, and reducing Rs 1 lakh crore in fossil fuel imports.
This initiative emphasizes production, pilot projects, electrolyser manufacturing, skill development, infrastructure, and research, with plans to phase out fossil fuels in the steel, transport, and fertilizer sectors.
To advance this agenda, three major ports—Kandla, Paradip, and Tuticorin—have been earmarked by the ministry to develop as Green Hydrogen hubs.
Through innovative programs, legislative changes, and green-shipping initiatives, the nation is restructuring its maritime framework for the future: cleaner ports, low-emission fleets, smart infrastructure, and inclusive opportunities. As India navigates towards 2047, it does so not merely as a rising maritime force but as a responsible guardian of the seas, a globally competitive economy, and a partner dedicated to planetary well-being.
Building upon this foundation is the ‘Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,’ a comprehensive long-term plan for India’s maritime revival, with approximately Rs 80 lakh crore allocated for ports, coastal shipping, inland waterways, shipbuilding, and green shipping initiatives.
The government is promoting sustainable maritime activities by establishing green corridors, implementing green hydrogen bunkering at key ports, and encouraging the use of methanol-powered vessels.
With over 300 actionable initiatives outlined, it envisions India ascending as one of the world’s leading maritime and shipbuilding nations by the centenary of independence.
Through initiatives like the ‘Harit Sagar Green Port Guidelines’, 2023, ‘National Green Hydrogen Mission, 2023’, and the ‘Green Tug Transition Programme’, 2024, India is transforming its ports and shipping sector into models of sustainability.
The recently unveiled Rs 25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund is set to stimulate investments in green infrastructure, alternative fuels, and fleet modernization, ensuring that India stays at the forefront of decarbonization, as highlighted in the statement.