India and Norway have agreed to collaborate on green shipping technologies, digital maritime ecosystems, and ocean-based initiatives.
The partnership was solidified during the Nor-Shipping 2025 event in Oslo, where India’s delegation, led by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, engaged in bilateral meetings with Norway’s Minister of Transport and Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy. The discussions emphasized the development of electric ferries, sustainable port infrastructure, ship recycling, and ocean renewable energy. A notable outcome was India’s proposal to conduct a joint feasibility study with Norway to operationalize the Northern Sea Route (NSR), aiming to establish a safe, sustainable, and efficient Arctic shipping corridor.
India expressed interest in adopting Norway’s expertise in ferry electrification to advance its Green Coastal Shipping Programme and electrify inland waterway transport systems. Both nations also explored synergies in digital port infrastructure, AI-driven logistics, and low-emission maritime technologies. Under the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, India is transitioning towards sustainable maritime practices. The country’s ports are evolving into clean energy and innovation hubs, focusing on hydrogen-powered vessels, green tug transitions, and e-methanol bunkering. India proposed collaboration in manufacturing electric ferries and vessels for global deployment, leveraging its shipbuilding capacity and Norway’s technological expertise.
Further discussions included cooperation in sustainable fisheries, seafarer training, ocean renewable energy, and responsible ship recycling. India highlighted the potential of the Alang Ship Recycling Yard in Gujarat as a model for green ship-breaking. Emphasizing inclusive maritime development, India underscored efforts to promote gender equity in the sector through initiatives like ‘Saagar Mein Samman’. The country also sought Norwegian support in training Indian seafarers in polar navigation, cybersecurity, and emerging maritime technologies.
The ministers acknowledged the momentum generated by the EFTA-India Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement and reaffirmed the enduring maritime partnership between the two nations. India invited Norwegian companies to collaborate in developing ocean renewable energy, sustainable aquaculture, and deep-sea exploration, aligning with the shared goal of a resilient Blue Economy. This collaboration marks a significant step towards achieving a cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive maritime future, reflecting the shared commitment of India and Norway to sustainable development in the maritime sector.
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