Mumbai, Oct 27 (NationPress) The Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, emphasized on Monday that India’s maritime sector, estimated at nearly $1 trillion (Rs 84 lakh crore), presents significant opportunities for investment in ports, shipping, and logistics.

During the India Maritime Week 2025, the minister focused on the theme "Innovative Mechanisms for Ship Financing".

He pointed out the achievements of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in generating Rs 1.4 lakh crore through various models such as ToT (toll operate transfer), InvITs, and PPP (public-private partnership), which increased private sector participation from 10 percent to 35 percent. Gadkari urged that similar strategies could expedite project delivery, enhance quality, and alleviate financial pressures on the government through private sector creativity and effective fund management.

He also launched the CMEG (RIS) – India Maritime Report 2025-26, titled "Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision: India’s Maritime Strides".

Expressing his gratitude towards Union Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Gadkari commended the progress made in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Sagarmala 2.0, aimed at enhancing shipbuilding, repair, recycling, improving port operations, strengthening the coastal economy, and revitalizing inland waterways.

He stressed that with private sector innovation, transparent governance, and timely execution, India could foster lasting global trust in its maritime leadership and competitiveness.

Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the five-day India Maritime Week 2025 at NESCO Grounds in Mumbai, which runs from October 27 to 31.

Highlighting India’s vast maritime capabilities, Shah noted that the nation's strategic maritime location, democratic stability, and naval prowess play a crucial role in connecting the Indo-Pacific and the Global South.

Ministers from 11 countries, accompanied by their industry delegations, are engaging in various sessions throughout this five-day event, indicating the rising global interest in India’s maritime sector.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is organizing the event under the theme "Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision". The IMW 2025 aims to showcase India’s strategic vision to become a global maritime hub and a leader in the Blue Economy.

Over 100,000 delegates from more than 85 countries are participating in this meeting, including major global maritime industry players, international bodies, and policy think tanks. Several state ministers and Lt Governors from across India are also present to demonstrate investment prospects and regional maritime strengths, as stated by the Ministry.

A significant highlight of India Maritime Week 2025 will be the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will address the nation and global maritime leaders on the evening of October 29 during a special plenary session.

In addition to his public address, the Prime Minister will preside over a high-level global CEO forum with select international CEOs from leading maritime companies worldwide.

With over 350 international speakers, IMW 2025 is set to be a center for industry expertise and strategic discussions.

The event will also see the signing of over 600 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), amounting to more than Rs 10 lakh crore in investment commitments.

A large exhibition featuring over 400 exhibitors will take place alongside an extensive conference schedule.

The event includes four country sessions with Norway, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden, as well as 11 sessions from various states/UTs, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Andaman & Nicobar, as per the statement.