India to Develop Shipbuilding Clusters and Boost Maritime Capacity by 2028

India is planning to establish shipbuilding and ship repair clusters in five states to enhance its maritime capabilities. The country aims to achieve a container handling capacity of 40 million TEUs by 2028, creating significant job opportunities. Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted key initiatives in the industry, focusing on the strategic importance of shipbuilding and repair.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways is spearheading the development of dedicated clusters in states like Maharashtra, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Gujarat. It projects a substantial increase in container handling over the next five years, with Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority alone aiming to scale up capacities. Additionally, plans are in place for the establishment of hydrogen manufacturing hubs, attracting substantial investments in the sector.

The ministry is also committed to advancing infrastructure and reforms in the maritime sector to align with ambitious visions like Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amritkaal Vision 2047. Initiatives such as the Indian Maritime Centre and Indian International Maritime Dispute Resolution Centre aim to bolster India’s global standing in maritime infrastructure and logistics. Responding to developments at Chabahar port and expansion into global markets like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, the ministry is focused on incentivizing green fuel use for vessels, promoting sustainability in maritime operations.

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