New Delhi: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has called for a technology-led transformation of India’s maritime security architecture, stressing the need for resilient, integrated and future-ready systems as the country’s port network and role in global trade expand.
Technology at the Centre of Maritime Security
Addressing the 2nd National Port Security Conference 2026 in New Delhi, Sonowal said India’s ports should be assessed not only on cargo handling and operational efficiency but also on their ability to withstand emerging security threats.
He called for greater adoption of advanced technologies, stronger institutional coordination and a future-ready security ecosystem to support India’s maritime ambitions.
“Safe Ports create Strong Trade. Strong Trade creates a Strong Economy. And a strong economy builds a strong Nation,”
The Minister highlighted cyberattacks, drone incursions, supply chain vulnerabilities and threats to digital infrastructure as emerging challenges, making maritime security a strategic priority.
Bureau of Port Security and Digital Initiatives
Sonowal said the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025, would provide a dedicated institutional framework for strengthening regulatory oversight, standardising security practices and improving coordination among maritime agencies.
He also highlighted digital initiatives including e-Samudra, the Maritime Single Window and One Nation One Port Process, stressing that the development of smart ports must be accompanied by strong cybersecurity and risk-management systems.
“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guided by the vision of SAGAR, we are committed to building a secure, resilient and future-ready maritime ecosystem that will anchor India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047,”
140 Participants Deliberate on Port Security
The conference brought together around 140 participants, including senior officials from:
- Ministry of Ports
- Shipping and Waterways
- Ministry of Home Affairs
- Indian Navy
- Indian Coast Guard
- State Maritime Boards
- Major Port Authorities, non-major ports and industry.
The participants discussed emerging security challenges affecting India’s maritime sector and the need for stronger coordination among agencies.
Focus on ‘Security by Design’
Secretary, MoPSW, Vijay Kumar, advocated a “Security by Design” approach, under which security considerations are incorporated into every stage of port development.
Secretary (Border Management), Ministry of Home Affairs, Dr Rajendra Kumar, stressed the need for greater use of technology and stronger inter-agency coordination to address emerging cyber, drone and transnational maritime security threats.
The conference also featured technical sessions covering the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, cybersecurity, geopolitical risks affecting global shipping and emerging best practices in maritime security.
The discussions are expected to contribute to recommendations for further strengthening India’s port security framework.
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