On December 9, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced key advancements in India’s maritime sector. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the focus is on enhancing infrastructure, digital innovation, and sustainable shipping practices. This strategic approach aims to modernize the industry, improve efficiency, and support global climate change efforts.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the gas carrier Shivalik at Visakhapatnam Port, marking its debut under the Indian flag. Acquired by the Shipping Corporation of India, the Shivalik enhances India’s LPG logistics. Sonowal emphasized this achievement within the context of the nation’s maritime ambitions and the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched over ₹276 crore in capacity-building and modernization initiatives at Visakhapatnam Port. The event included the foundation laying of six major projects aimed at enhancing port capabilities. Key projects feature the B-Ramp and a new fishing harbor jetty, significantly benefiting local commerce and community needs.
The Ministry of Trade Union for Ports and Shipping, as stated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, is focused on enhancing Kollam Port. This effort includes accommodating luxury and freight vessels and launching services to Minicoy Island. The state must prepare a proposal to align with the Sagarmala project for optimal development.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal held extensive review meetings in Mumbai to assess key maritime projects, emphasizing the need for normal business operations amid challenges. He directed officials to ensure smooth cargo movement and evaluated the National Maritime Heritage Complex and the Greenfield Mega Port project, urging accelerated development to enhance India’s maritime leadership.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the Rs 4,300-crore National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal as pivotal for preserving India’s maritime legacy. During a visit with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, he noted the project’s potential for national pride, education, tourism, and global collaborations, aiming for completion by 2028.
The forthcoming Coastal Shipping Bill and Merchant Shipping Bill are set to stimulate coastal shipping and bolster Indian ship ownership, as per Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister for Shipping and Ports. These bills aim to enhance the maritime sector, promote coastal security, and elevate maritime training standards to drive economic growth in India.
India’s maritime trade is unaffected by a container shortage, according to Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The Red Sea crisis caused global shipping disruptions, leading to longer transit times and increased costs. Sonowal proposed Indian entities owning containers as a solution. Port capacities have expanded significantly, with a total increase of 87.01%. The government remains committed to improving maritime infrastructure and trade operations.
