India's maritime sector is poised for a massive transformation with projected investments exceeding ₹80 lakh crore in the coming years, according to Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. This substantial financial infusion is expected to help the nation reclaim its historical maritime supremacy while generating more than 1.5 crore employment opportunities across various segments of the industry.
Vizhinjam Port Development Marks Significant Milestone
Speaking at the inauguration of the second phase of development at Vizhinjam port in Thiruvananthapuram, Minister Sonowal revealed that the maritime sector has already attracted over ₹12 lakh crore in investments during 2025 alone. He emphasized that investment inflows are anticipated to accelerate significantly in the forthcoming years, creating a robust foundation for India's maritime resurgence.
"As a result of this investment, India's long-lost maritime supremacy will be regained and we shall be the global maritime leaders once again," the minister declared with confidence during his address.
Transformation into Global Transshipment Hub
Sonowal highlighted that upon completion of its second development phase, Vizhinjam port will evolve into "a regional transshipment hub of global significance." He noted that the port has already demonstrated remarkable operational performance since its dedication to the nation in May of the previous year, showcasing India's growing capabilities in port infrastructure and management.
Decade of Unprecedented Maritime Progress
The minister outlined the substantial developments witnessed in India's maritime sector over the past decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. He described this period as one of "unprecedented progress" characterized by multiple expansions across key indicators:
- Significant increase in shipyard facilities and capabilities
- Substantial growth in maritime cruise passengers
- Expansion of cruise circuits and routes
- Enhanced inland waterway cargo movement
- Increased number of operational waterways across the country
Improved Logistics Efficiency
The impact of these comprehensive reforms is clearly reflected in India's logistics costs, which have shown marked improvement. According to estimates from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), logistics costs stood at approximately 7.97 percent of GDP during 2023-24. This represents a clear improvement from earlier levels and demonstrates the effectiveness of maritime sector reforms in enhancing overall economic efficiency.
Kerala's Strategic Role in Maritime Transformation
"Kerala occupies a very special place in this national maritime transformation," Sonowal emphasized, highlighting the state's unique advantages in the maritime domain. With world-class ports, modern shipping infrastructure, strong shipbuilding capabilities, and vibrant inland waterways, Kerala is exceptionally positioned to play a leadership role in shaping India's maritime future.
The minister expressed strong confidence that Vizhinjam seaport, along with the broader maritime ecosystem being developed across Kerala, will generate substantial employment opportunities, boost international and domestic trade, empower coastal communities, and significantly strengthen India's position within global supply chains.
Sagarmala Projects in Kerala
Sonowal provided specific details about maritime development initiatives in Kerala, revealing that the state is currently implementing 56 Sagarmala-related projects involving total investments exceeding ₹24,000 crore. Of these ambitious projects:
- 20 projects valued at ₹5,300 crore have been successfully completed
- 36 projects worth ₹18,700 crore are at various stages of implementation
The minister also acknowledged the pivotal role played by Cochin Port Authority and Cochin Shipyard Ltd in strengthening Kerala's maritime ecosystem, noting their significant contributions to port operations, shipbuilding, and maritime infrastructure development.
This comprehensive maritime development strategy represents a crucial component of India's broader economic growth vision, positioning the nation to reclaim its historical prominence in global maritime affairs while creating substantial economic opportunities for millions of citizens across coastal regions and beyond.
