India proposed conducting a Joint Feasibility Study to explore operationalizing the Northern Sea Route (NSR), a potential strategic trade corridor through Arctic waters. The initiative aims to bring Indian and Norwegian agencies together for R&D in Arctic navigation, development of ice-class vessels, and advancement in sustainable shipping in extreme environments.
Ferry Electrification & Green Tug Transition Top India’s Agenda
During talks with Norway’s Transport Minister Jon-Ivar Nygård, Mr Sarbananda Sonowal expressed India’s interest in Norway’s successful ferry electrification model. He proposed joint manufacturing of electric ferries and tugs for inland waterways, as part of India’s Green Coastal Shipping Programme and Maritime India Vision 2030.
“We are transforming ports into clean energy hubs that support green hydrogen, offshore wind, and low-carbon logistics,” Sonowal said.
Digitalisation, Smart Ports, and Clean Coastal Shipping Collaboration
India and Norway also discussed synergy between India’s MAITRI initiative and Norway’s expertise in AI-driven port management, LNG and hydrogen fuels, and digital twins to build smart, sustainable ports.
Ocean Renewable Energy, Fisheries & Ship Recycling in Spotlight
In his meeting with Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy, Marianne Sivertsen, Mr Sonowal explored collaborations in-
- Ocean renewable energy (wind, tidal)
- Ship recycling using green tech
- Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture
- Training seafarers, especially for polar waters
India highlighted the Alang Ship Recycling Yard in Gujarat as a potential site for applying sustainable practices in ship dismantling.
An enriching experience and great response at #NorShipping2025 in Oslo.
— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) June 5, 2025
Engaged with innovators across maritime tech and highlighted India's leaps in the sector powered by the vision of Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji. We are committed to driving global progress through… pic.twitter.com/lVuWOOyWWe
Push for Gender Equity and Skill Development in Maritime Sector
The Indian Minister emphasized India’s focus on gender diversity, citing the ‘Saagar Mein Samman’ initiative, and sought Norway’s support in building maritime human capital through training in cybersecurity, polar operations, and advanced navigation.
A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Blue Economy
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to a sustainable Blue Economy, rooted in mutual respect and shared values. Shri Sonowal described Norway as a “valued partner” and welcomed Norwegian firms to explore joint ventures in deep-sea exploration and maritime technology.
“The momentum in our bilateral maritime cooperation is strong, and today’s talks will soon be translated into actionable items,” said Sonowal.
