Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has announced ambitious projections for India's maritime sector, revealing plans to attract investments exceeding Rs 80 lakh crore in the coming years. This massive investment initiative is designed to help India reclaim its historical maritime leadership and create substantial employment opportunities across the country.

Investment Momentum and Job Creation

The maritime sector has already demonstrated strong performance, having attracted Rs 12 lakh crore in 2025. The projected investment surge is expected to generate over 1.5 crore jobs, significantly contributing to India's economic growth and employment landscape.

Vizhinjam Port Development

The minister emphasized the strategic importance of Vizhinjam port, particularly highlighting its potential once the second phase of development is completed. The port, which was dedicated in May last year, has already shown impressive operational performance and is positioned to become a significant regional transshipment hub.

Sonowal stated that this investment will help India regain its maritime supremacy, positioning the country as a global maritime leader once again.

Kerala's Maritime Infrastructure Projects

Kerala plays a pivotal role in India's maritime transformation, leveraging its world-class ports, modern shipping facilities, robust shipbuilding industry, and vibrant inland waterways. The state is currently implementing an extensive portfolio of maritime infrastructure projects.

The Cochin Port Authority and Cochin Shipyard Ltd serve as key pillars in strengthening Kerala's maritime ecosystem, contributing significantly to the state's maritime capabilities.

Logistics Performance and Economic Impact

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership over the past decade, the maritime sector has witnessed substantial improvements across multiple parameters. The number of shipyards, cruise passengers, cruise sectors, cargo movement on inland waterways, and operational waterways has increased significantly.

These developments have positively impacted India's logistics costs, which currently stand at approximately 7.97% of GDP for 2023-24. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) have documented these improvements in logistics efficiency.

Strategic Vision for Maritime Leadership

The minister expressed confidence that the development of Vizhinjam seaport and Kerala's maritime ecosystem will generate substantial benefits including employment opportunities, enhanced trade capabilities, empowerment of coastal communities, and strengthening of India's position in the global supply chain.

These comprehensive initiatives underscore India's commitment to enhancing its maritime infrastructure and capabilities, with the ultimate goal of regaining its status as a global maritime leader while fostering sustained economic growth and job creation nationwide.