New Delhi: India’s maritime sector is undergoing a transformative shift, evolving from a traditional commerce gateway into a proactive force for climate resilience and environmental sustainability, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on Friday. He was addressing a key event hosted by the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority in Tamil Nadu.
Sonowal highlighted the sector’s alignment with Maritime India Vision 2030, a flagship initiative guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming to modernize Indian ports while embedding sustainable practices into their core operations.
“Our ports are not just enablers of economic growth but torchbearers of environmental stewardship on the global stage,” the Minister said.
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Call for Green Hydrogen Readiness
Shipping Secretary T.K. Ramachandran stressed the need for India to develop practical experience in handling green hydrogen and related technologies. His remarks reflected the growing importance of alternative fuels in the maritime ecosystem.
Port Authorities Align with National Sustainability Goals
VOC Port Chairman Sushanta Kumar Purohit underlined the collective nature of India’s green maritime journey.
“This is more than just an event—it’s a confluence of ideas and commitments aimed at safeguarding India’s maritime future,” he said.
He added that the mission of sustainability must be shared by all stakeholders in the sector.
Inland Waterways as a Green Engine
Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) Chairman Vijay Kumar emphasized the strategic role of inland waterways in meeting India’s net-zero emissions goal by 2070. He said the NAVIC Cell within the Ministry is actively coordinating eco-friendly development across the country’s water-based transport network.
Looking Ahead: Maritime India Vision 2030
The Maritime India Vision 2030 aims to position India among the top global maritime nations by integrating technology, sustainability, and investment. With projects focused on green ports, hydrogen fuel adoption, electrified cargo handling, and smart logistics, the government hopes to make India a model for sustainable maritime development.
