India targets ₹80 lakh crore maritime investment, 1.5 crore jobs by 2047: Sonowal

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on Tuesday (October 14, 2025) said India is aiming for ₹80 lakh crore in maritime investments and the creation of 1.5 crore jobs by 2047, as part of a comprehensive strategy to transform the sector. The announcement came during a press conference held at the NESCO Exhibition Centre in Mumbai in collaboration with the Indian Ports Association (IPA), ahead of the India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled from October 27 to 31.

Global collaboration

Mr. Sonowal said the maritime sector is being reshaped to align with the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’, and the country aims to witness large-scale investments, world-class infrastructure, and enhanced global competitiveness across the blue economy by 20147. “This opens vast avenues for international collaboration, including a $1 trillion maritime investment roadmap,” he said.

“Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modiji, we are working to transform our ports, shipping, and logistics ecosystem into one that is resilient, sustainable, and future-ready. IMW 2025 will be a platform where ideas can translate into projects and commitments into partnerships. India stands ready to collaborate and lead towards a maritime future that is prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive.”

Mega exhibition

IMW 2025 is expected to host over one lakh delegates and 500 exhibitors from more than 100 countries, including ministerial delegations from Singapore, the UAE, South Korea, Japan, and Denmark. International organisations such as the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and UNESCAP, leading Indian States like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, and major industry players including Adani Ports and Logistics, Cochin Shipyard, and Paradip Port Authority are also expected to participate.

Mr. Sonowal added, “Cargo movement on inland waterways has grown eightfold since 2014. Turnaround time at major ports has reduced by 60%, and more than ₹5.5 lakh crore worth of Sagarmala projects are reshaping coastal logistics. India now supplies 12% of the world’s seafarers, reflecting both its scale and maritime skill leadership.”

With all 12 major ports expected to achieve carbon neutrality by 2047 and green energy transition targets for 2035 already in motion, the Union Minister said the focus is shifting toward a sustainable and technology-driven maritime future.