Union Minister Sonowal Unveils Maritime Milestones: Vision 2030 and Beyond

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal presented key milestones of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways in the first 100 days. Emphasizing PM Modi's vision, Sonowal highlighted major projects boosting maritime infrastructure, employment, sustainability, and eased operations. Initiatives include the Vadhvan Port, green hydrogen hubs, and the International Container Transshipment Port.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, outlined significant milestones achieved by his Ministry during the first 100 days at a press conference, underlining efforts to transform India's maritime sector in alignment with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amritkaal Vision 2047.

Sonowal credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Ports for Prosperity and Ports for Progress' for guiding the holistic development and 'Transformation through Transportation' philosophy that is overhauling India's maritime landscape. He emphasized that bolstering maritime infrastructure is paving the way for economic growth and creating substantial employment opportunities.

The Minister highlighted key initiatives such as the development of Vadhvan Port and the notification of Galathea Bay as a major port, forecasting a dramatic increase in TEU container handling capacity and job creation. He also mentioned the establishment of strategic shipbuilding clusters, green hydrogen projects, and the forthcoming 'Sagarmanthan: The Great Ocean Conference' to focus on ocean sustainability.

Key projects such as the Tuticorin International Container Terminal and various Ease of Doing Business initiatives were highlighted for their impact on port performance and economic benefits. The Ministry showcased improved traffic at major ports and launched greening initiatives like the Green Tug Transition Programme.

Future plans include commencing work on a new transshipment port, expanding shipbuilding financial policies, and launching the Cruise India Mission, all aimed at reducing logistics costs, promoting sustainability, and bolstering India's standing as a global maritime powerhouse.

(With inputs from agencies.)