The Union Budget of 2026 aligns with the government’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, aiming to enhance India’s inland waterways sector for improved sustainability, reduced logistics costs, and a stronger transport framework. The proposal to operationalize 20 new National Waterways (NW) will stimulate logistics and manufacturing. Specifically, NW-5 in Odisha will connect resource-rich regions to crucial ports, reinforcing the value of waterways.
To diversify India’s freight modal mix, efforts are underway to reduce dependence on roads and railways, with plans to increase maritime freight from the current 6% to 12% by 2047. Although initiatives like the Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme aim to incentivize coastal shipping, significant improvements in last-mile connectivity and infrastructure are necessary.
Recent Economic Surveys show promise for inland waterways, with the cargo movement increasing significantly over recent years. However, key concerns remain, including first and last-mile connectivity and delays in land acquisition. Effective governance and maintenance of these waterways are essential, alongside the establishment of training institutes to develop skilled personnel.
The Budget conveys the government’s intent to promote integrated inland and coastal shipping. The success of these initiatives will depend on coordinated actions between the Centre and State, ensuring a sustainable shift towards waterways as a viable transport solution.
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