New Delhi, April 11 (NationPress) Over the last decade, India’s maritime sector has experienced remarkable growth in capacity, connectivity, and operational efficiency, largely due to the Sagarmala programme. This initiative has played a crucial role in modernizing ports, enhancing coastal and inland waterway infrastructure, and improving cargo handling capabilities, according to an official fact-sheet released on Saturday.

In the span of 11 years, the Sagarmala programme has achieved significant results. The upcoming Sagarmala 2.0, backed by Rs 85,482 crore, is set to stimulate Rs 3.6 lakh crore in investments.

A total of 845 projects, valued at Rs 6.06 lakh crore, have been initiated under this scheme. As of March 24, 2026, 315 projects costing Rs 1.57 lakh crore have been completed, while 210 projects are presently in progress and 320 projects are under consideration.

“The completed initiatives have significantly increased capacity, minimized vessel turnaround times, and fostered development within port-led industries and coastal communities. Together, these actions provide a systematic framework to maintain growth and enhance India’s maritime infrastructure for trade and industrial purposes,” stated the official announcement.

India’s major ports have collectively processed a record 915.17 million tonnes (MT) of cargo during FY 2025–26, exceeding the annual target of 904 MT. This reflects a year-on-year growth of 7.06%, showcasing a consistent rise in maritime trade.

The average vessel turnaround time has impressively dropped from 96 hours in 2014 to 49.5 hours in 2025, highlighting enhanced port efficiency and expedited cargo processing.

Additionally, Indian ports have bolstered their international standing, with 9 ports making it to the world’s top 100, including Visakhapatnam Port, which ranks among the top 20 for container traffic.

Cargo movement via inland waterways has surged from 18.10 MTPA in FY 2013–14 to 145.50 MTPA in FY 2024-25, representing an increase of approximately 700%, thus contributing to a more effective and varied logistics system.

Furthermore, 11 fishing harbour projects, with a budget of Rs 1,057 crore, have been completed, directly aiding over 30,000 fishermen.

Beyond infrastructure, the programme has played a vital role in enhancing livelihoods within coastal communities through focused skill development programs.

The Sagarmala Programme is projected to create a cumulative employment potential of around 1 crore jobs, comprising 40 lakh direct and 60 lakh indirect employment opportunities, driven by port-centric industrialization and the growth of maritime and related infrastructure.