SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth | SDG 14: Life Below Water
Institutions: Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways | Indian Maritime University (IMU)
At the 10th convocation of the Indian Maritime University (IMU) in Chennai, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal outlined the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which earmarks ₹80 lakh crore for India’s maritime sector over the next two decades. Investments will target port modernization, shipbuilding, coastal shipping, inland waterways, and green maritime technologies.
The Minister highlighted sectoral progress: port turnaround time reduced to 0.9 days, inland waterway cargo up sevenfold, and coastal shipping volumes rising by 150%. He also stressed India’s growing human capital base, with over 3 lakh Indian seafarers, placing India among the world’s top three suppliers of seafarers. This workforce expansion, coupled with maritime infrastructure upgrades, positions India to play a greater role in global shipping and trade chains.
By linking long-term capital investment with human capital growth, the government is signaling a more holistic approach to maritime transformation. This integrated vision could generate employment, boost competitiveness in global shipping, and align with India’s broader blue economy and green transition strategies. Its success will depend on balancing infrastructure rollout, workforce training, and adoption of sustainable practices.
What is Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047? → A long-term roadmap for India’s maritime sector, covering port upgrades, shipbuilding, coastal and inland shipping, and green technologies through 2047, aimed at global competitiveness and sustainability.
What is a seafarer? → A trained maritime professional (navigation, engineering, deck, logistics) essential for operating ships and enabling global trade. Seafarers form the human backbone of the shipping industry.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
Can the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision balance massive infrastructure investments with training, welfare, and green transition needs to secure India’s place in global maritime value chains?
Follow the full news here: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2171836