Mumbai: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Wednesday that India's maritime sector is advancing with great speed and energy, with its ports now being recognized among the most efficient in the developing world.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Modi addressed the Global Maritime CEO Forum, the flagship event of India Maritime Week 2025, which is being held in Mumbai from October 27 to 30. He emphasized that the maritime sector is a key driver of India's growth. Modi highlighted the significant transformation in India's maritime sector over the last decade, which has enhanced trade and port infrastructure. Under the Maritime India Vision, more than 150 new initiatives have been launched, resulting in nearly doubling the capacity of major ports, a substantial reduction in turnaround time, and a new momentum in cruise tourism.
Modi noted the modernization of shipping laws, stating that his government has replaced over a century-old colonial shipping laws with modern, futuristic regulations suited for the 21st century. He remarked, "India is accelerating efforts to reach new heights in shipbuilding, and we have now granted large ships the status of infrastructure assets."
Amid global turmoil, Modi stressed that it is the right time to expand India's shipping sector as the world looks for a stable guide. "Amid global tensions, trade disruptions, and shifting supply chains, India stands as a symbol of strategic autonomy, peace, and inclusive growth," he said.
He was addressing CEOs of global maritime companies, major investors, policymakers, innovators, and international partners who gathered to discuss the future of the global maritime ecosystem. The Forum is expected to serve as a major platform for dialogue on sustainable maritime growth, resilient supply chains, green shipping, and inclusive blue economy strategies. India is striving to position itself among the world's leading maritime powers in line with India Maritime Vision 2047, which is built on four strategic pillars: port-led development, shipping and shipbuilding, seamless logistics, and maritime skill-building. Around 85 countries with approximately 100,000 delegates are participating in India Maritime Week 2025, considered New Delhi's global platform to unite leading stakeholders across shipping, ports, shipbuilding, cruise tourism, and blue economy finance.