Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s maritime sector and ports, describing them as critical to driving the nation’s progress and prosperity.
In his message on National Maritime Day, the Prime Minister recalled India’s rich maritime heritage and its historic role in nation-building. He noted that while India was once a recognised sea power, the maritime sector was largely neglected in the decades following independence. However, in the past 10 years, New India has achieved significant milestones in this sector through consistent and focused efforts.
PM Modi highlighted that the cargo handling capacity of major ports has doubled in the last decade. Additionally, thousands of kilometres of new roads have been built to improve port connectivity, further advancing economic growth.
He emphasised the government’s mantra of “ports for prosperity and ports for progress” and introduced the new vision of “ports for productivity,” which aims to enhance the efficiency and development of maritime infrastructure.
The Prime Minister also underlined the government’s commitment to developing coastal shipping, citing the Coastal Shipping Bill passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The Bill aims to consolidate and amend laws governing coastal trade, promote domestic participation, and ensure the creation of a robust, Indian-owned coastal fleet that supports national security and commercial needs.
He added that inland waterways are also being developed as part of a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the maritime ecosystem.
PM Modi concluded by stating that history has proven when India’s maritime sector is strong, both the nation and the world benefit. With this in mind, the government continues to work in a planned and determined manner to boost the sector’s growth and global standing.
