How is CM Patel Showcasing Gujarat’s Maritime Success at India Maritime Week?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat's maritime success enhances India's trade capabilities.
- Ambitious port capacity goals are set for 2047.
- The state leads in LNG-LPG handling, crucial for energy security.
- Development of National Maritime Heritage Complex showcases cultural integration.
- Gujarat's ports are evolving as economic engines for growth and employment.
Ahmedabad, Oct 27 (NationPress) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Monday showcased the state's rise as India's maritime powerhouse, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Samudra se Samruddhi’ (Prosperity through the Sea) during the inauguration of India Maritime Week 2025. This significant event, organized by the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, took place at the Bombay Exhibition Centre.
The inauguration was graced by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, along with Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and the Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, Goa, and Odisha.
Speaking to global maritime leaders, innovators, and investors from over 100 nations, CM Patel stated that Gujarat has established a comprehensive ecosystem for both “chip and ship” manufacturing, reinforcing PM Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
He emphasized that Gujarat’s maritime journey over the past two decades has positioned it as the “Maritime Gateway of the Nation,” managing more than 40 percent of India's total cargo traffic.
The Chief Minister pointed out that Gujarat is at the forefront of LNG-LPG handling, with Dahej alone responsible for over 80 percent of India's LNG-LPG throughput. Additionally, the state contributes 98 percent to the nation’s ship recycling at the world’s largest yard in Alang.
He announced an ambitious plan for Gujarat to boost the combined capacity of its major and non-major ports to 3,000 MMTPA by 2047, in alignment with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
Furthermore, he highlighted the ongoing development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, which exemplifies PM Modi’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development with Heritage).
CM Patel also stressed Gujarat’s commitment to maritime innovation, skill development, and initiatives related to the blue economy, including port modernization, connectivity upgrades under Sagarmala, coastal community development, and smart industrial port cities.
He articulated that Gujarat’s ports have evolved into not just trade hubs but also crucial engines for employment, industry, and growth.
The inaugural session was attended by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Goa CM Pramod Sawant, Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Minister of State Shantanu Thakur, and Maharashtra Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, among other dignitaries.