Government Unveils Sagarmala 2.0 with Fresh Funding for Infrastructure Growth
The Indian government has launched Sagarmala 2.0, a visionary upgrade to its flagship maritime development programme. Aimed at addressing critical infrastructure gaps, the new phase of the project comes with a fresh infusion of funds and a renewed focus on enhancing India’s maritime capabilities. Under the initial phase, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) oversaw 839 projects with a total investment of ₹5.79 lakh crore, 272 of which have already been completed.
These projects include port modernisation, port connectivity, and the development of coastal community infrastructure. The first phase successfully added 230 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA) of port capacity, while enhancing the connectivity of over 1,500 kilometres of port links. The government is now focusing on the next phase, Sagarmala 2.0, which is set to catalyse investments worth ₹12 lakh crore over the next decade. With ₹40,000 crore earmarked as budgetary support, Sagarmala 2.0 aims to build on the success of the first phase by placing a significant emphasis on shipbuilding, repair, recycling, and the development of coastal industries. The new phase comes at a critical time when India is focusing on improving its position in global maritime rankings. The programme has already contributed to a 118% growth in coastal shipping over the past decade, with over 40 lakh passengers ferried by Ro-Pax ferries and a 700% increase in inland waterway cargo. Nine Indian ports now feature in the world’s top 100, with Visakhapatnam making it to the top 20 container ports. Sagarmala 2.0 will not only enhance India’s ports and shipping infrastructure but will also promote green shipping technologies and smarter port operations.
An innovative initiative under Sagarmala 2.0, called the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative (S2I2), has been launched to boost entrepreneurship and innovation in the maritime sector. This programme aims to support startups working on technologies related to green shipping, smart ports, maritime logistics, and sustainable coastal development. The Sagarmala programme aligns with the government’s broader vision for economic growth, particularly the Prime Minister’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-reliant India) vision. The expansion of India’s maritime sector through Sagarmala 2.0 aims to strengthen the country’s global competitiveness, reduce logistics costs for domestic and international trade, and generate significant economic opportunities for coastal communities.
The government’s decision to support this programme with new funding is also part of its broader efforts to modernise infrastructure and promote sustainable growth. The continued emphasis on port-led industrialisation and the development of coastal shipping networks promises to create a more efficient and sustainable transport system across India’s vast coastline. Sagarmala 2.0 is expected to play a key role in strengthening the nation’s position as a global maritime leader.
With initiatives aimed at modernising ports, improving connectivity, and boosting coastal economic zones, the programme is set to drive India’s maritime infrastructure growth while contributing to the nation’s overall economic development. As India continues to focus on building sustainable, eco-friendly, and efficient infrastructure, the success of Sagarmala 2.0 will play a crucial role in positioning India as a key player in global maritime trade, with long-term benefits for both the economy and the environment.
