The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways is pivotal in fortifying India’s domestic and international trade. With nearly 95% of India’s overseas trade by volume transacted through its ports, the sector is undeniably critical to the nation’s economy. However, India accounts for just over 10% of the global deadweight tonnage, highlighting the need for substantial improvement.
In response, the government has introduced the flagship Sagar Mala programme, aiming to exploit the country’s 7,500 km coastline, 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways, and strategic location on major international maritime trade routes. The initiative has already yielded significant results, with India’s rank in the international shipment category soaring from 44 in 2014 to 22 today. The importance of this ministry is further underscored by the recent visit of Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to Iran’s Chabahar port on May 13, amidst the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. The visit marked the signing ceremony of the Long-term Main Contract for the development of Chabahar, a flagship India-Iran project. This initiative is particularly significant in the context of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, as it will establish a crucial trade route connecting India with Afghanistan and Central Asian countries.
The Sagar Mala programme exemplifies the government’s strategic efforts to modernise and expand India’s maritime infrastructure. By enhancing port efficiency, reducing logistics costs, and improving connectivity, the initiative aims to transform India into a leading global maritime player. As the country continues to bolster its maritime capabilities, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways remains at the forefront, navigating India towards a prosperous future in global trade.
