Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shantanu Thakur Highlights India’s Maritime Vision at “Sagar Sankalp” Dialogue
Sagarmala initiative aims to reduce logistics costs, improve efficiency and enhance India’s trade competitiveness by shifting from traditional, infrastructure-heavy transport systems to efficient coastal shipping and inland waterway networks
Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur Highlights Role of Sagarmala and Shipbuilding in India’s Maritime Future at National Maritime Defence Dialogue, “Sagar Sankalp – Reclaiming India’s Maritime Glory”
Kolkata, March 6, 2026: Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur addressed the National Maritime Defence Dialogue, Sagar Sankalp – Reclaiming India’s Maritime Glory organised by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in collaboration with The Week iMagazine n Kolkata.
Addressing the policymakers, maritime experts and industry leaders, the Minister emphasised the need for transformative steps in India’s maritime sector through the Sagarmala Programme, aimed at strengthening port-led development and enhancing the country’s global trade competitiveness.
Shri Thakur stated that India’s vast maritime geography provides immense opportunities for economic expansion. With over 7,500 km of coastline, 14,500 km of navigable waterways and a strategic location along major global trade routes, India is well positioned to leverage port-led industrialisation.
He noted that the Sagarmala initiative aims to reduce logistics costs, improve efficiency and enhance India’s trade competitiveness by shifting from traditional, infrastructure-heavy transport systems to efficient coastal shipping and inland waterway networks.
Sagarmamla focuses on:
● Port modernisation and infrastructure development
● Promotion of port-led industrial clusters
● Employment generation in coastal regions
● Sustainable development of coastal communities
The Minister emphasised that the initiative seeks to maximise economic impact while minimising infrastructure costs, creating an efficient logistics ecosystem that supports India’s economic growth.
Highlighting the Government’s long-term maritime strategy, Shri Thakur said, shipbuilding will be a cornerstone of India’s maritime future. Under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, the Government is planning to invest ₹3 lakh crore to develop shipbuilding clusters across the country.
India aims to:
- Become a Top 10 shipbuilding nation by 2030
- Enter the Top 5 global shipbuilding nations by 2047
The Minister said, strengthening domestic shipbuilding capacity will play a vital role in enhancing India’s maritime security, trade capabilities and industrial growth.
Shri Thakur reiterated that Atmanirbhar Bharat remains a key priority for the Government, particularly in the maritime and shipbuilding sectors. He urged the industry stakeholders to prepare for emerging technological capabilities and opportunities that will shape the future of the maritime economy.
He also highlighted the strategic importance of the 10 Degree Channel, describing it as a critical maritime corridor for India’s security and trade interests in the Indian Ocean region.
The Minister underlined that India should build confidence, capability and a clear strategic vision to emerge as a global maritime leader and strengthen its position in the Indian Ocean region.
He pointed out that India has the potential to become a maritime leader in South Asia, supported by strong port infrastructure, modern shipbuilding capabilities and a vibrant maritime industry.
Concluding his address, Shri Thakur stated that the maritime industry will play a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s economy, security and global standing, and called upon stakeholders to work collectively to realise the country’s ambitious maritime vision.
(This story has not been edited by News Mania staff and is published from a PIB Media Release)
