Maharashtra has emerged as one of India’s leading coastal investment hubs, securing commitments worth ₹56,000 crore in the maritime sector through 15 strategic agreements signed during the ongoing India Maritime Week. The deals span port expansion, shipbuilding, coastal logistics, and green maritime technology, signalling the state’s intent to become a key player in India’s growing blue economy.
According to senior officials, these investment agreements mark a decisive step in Maharashtra’s long-term strategy to modernise its 700-kilometre coastline and integrate port-led growth with sustainable economic development. The memorandums of understanding (MoUs) are expected to stimulate employment, boost export competitiveness, and attract allied industries such as ship repair, logistics, and marine equipment manufacturing. Among the major signings, a leading private conglomerate will spearhead the expansion of Dighi Port and jointly develop a large-scale industrial zone in collaboration with the central government. The project aims to transform the Dighi region into a logistics and manufacturing hub that complements India’s maritime trade corridors. Another major corporate group has committed to expanding its existing facility at Jaigad Port, enhancing cargo handling capacity and enabling deeper integration with international supply chains.
Officials highlighted that Maharashtra’s maritime strategy also extends beyond cargo and industrial infrastructure. Plans are underway to introduce India’s first ‘water taxi’ service connecting the newly inaugurated Navi Mumbai International Airport with the Gateway of India. Operated by a private airport developer, the service aims to reduce travel time, ease road congestion, and offer a sustainable mode of passenger transport using cleaner marine fuels. The state government is simultaneously developing a state-of-the-art marina in Mumbai to promote water sports, tourism, and eco-friendly marine recreation, aligning with the broader vision of building a greener, more accessible coastal ecosystem. Additionally, dedicated MoUs have been signed to establish centres of excellence focused on maritime technology, digital navigation, and human resource development to strengthen skills and research capabilities in the sector.
Officials affirmed that Maharashtra is working closely with the central government to establish an enabling ecosystem for investors. They emphasised that such partnerships will accelerate India’s transition towards sustainable port operations, cleaner fuels, and improved coastal resilience, aligning with global maritime decarbonisation goals. With these investments, Maharashtra is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s maritime transformation—leveraging its natural coastline, industrial capabilities, and policy ecosystem to anchor inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready growth.
Maharashtra Bags Rs 56,000 Crore Investment Boost In Maritime Sector
