The Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue represents a landmark initiative in India’s maritime history, setting the stage for global conversations on sustainable ocean governance, maritime security, and economic growth. Drawing inspiration from the ancient concept of Sagarmanthan—symbolizing the churning of the ocean for shared prosperity—this dialogue underscores the power of collaboration in navigating the opportunities and challenges of the blue economy. Organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways in partnership with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), the event brought together global thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore innovative solutions for a resilient and inclusive maritime ecosystem.
With India’s 7,500-kilometer coastline and strategic position along major shipping routes, the maritime sector has become a cornerstone of its economic and strategic ambitions. Initiatives like Sagarmanthan align with India’s vision of becoming a global maritime leader, driving sustainable development while fostering international partnerships for a free, open, and secure maritime domain.
Inaugural Sagarmanthan: A Beacon of Collaboration
The inaugural edition of Sagarmanthan The Great Oceans Dialogue is a moment of immense pride and cultural significance, said PM Narendra Modi in his inaugural message. Inspired by the ancient concept of “Sagarmanthan,” this initiative highlights the power of collaboration in achieving prosperity. PM extended Heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved in organizing this meaningful dialogue, which exemplifies the spirit of collective effort and innovation.
A Platform for Global Maritime Discourse
Efforts by organizations like the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in facilitating such dialogues are commendable. These platforms foster global conversations, enriching maritime strategies with inclusivity and innovation. Experts have a chance to share their insights, enabling the public to understand India’s broader vision for growth and its maritime ambitions.
India’s Glorious Maritime Legacy
India’s maritime heritage spans millennia, with thriving ancient port cities like Lothal and Dholavira and the naval prowess of the Chola dynasty and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. These legacies serve as enduring inspirations. Oceans, as shared global heritage, remain vital lifelines for trade and prosperity, emphasizing their importance to national security and international relations.
Transforming India’s Maritime Landscape
Under the guiding principles of “Ports for Prosperity,” “Ports for Progress,” and “Ports for Productivity,” India’s maritime infrastructure has seen remarkable growth. In the past decade, port capacity has doubled, turnaround times have reduced, and connectivity has strengthened through expressways, railways, and riverine networks, significantly transforming India’s shoreline.
Envisioning a Free and Secure Maritime Future
India’s vision for a free, open, and secure maritime domain, particularly in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions, is reflected in initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. This framework recognizes the pivotal role of marine resources in driving sustainable growth for nations, fostering trust and cooperation among countries.
Building a Prosperous Future
Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue aligns with India’s aspirations for a Viksit Bharat by 2047. By bringing together diverse perspectives, this dialogue strengthens the rules-based world order, promoting peace and partnerships. With collective efforts, such initiatives pave the way for a brighter, more connected, and prosperous global future.
India, with its 7,500-kilometer coastline, 12 major ports, and over 200 minor ports, stands as a significant maritime player, strategically positioned along the world’s busiest shipping routes. As a rising global power, India contributed 16 percent of global economic growth in 2023 and is projected to become the third-largest economy within three years. This ascent underscores the importance of India’s maritime sector as a cornerstone of commerce, connectivity, and international cooperation.
Recognising the sector’s critical role, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), hosted the inaugural Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue in New Delhi from November 18 to 19, 2024. This flagship event is South Asia’s largest maritime thought leadership forum, bringing together global leaders, policymakers, and industry visionaries to shape the future of the marine sector.
Objectives and Significance of Sagarmanthan
The event highlighted India’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth in the maritime domain while positioning itself as a leader in global maritime governance. It provided a platform for key stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogues around pressing maritime challenges and emerging opportunities.
As India rises to the forefront of global maritime discourse, events like Sagarmanthan aim to strengthen its role in defining sustainable practices and forward-thinking strategies. The dialogue is instrumental in enhancing international cooperation, promoting innovative solutions, and ensuring a resilient maritime ecosystem.
Thematic Pillars of Sagarmanthan
The discussions at Sagarmanthan revolved around four interconnected themes designed to address critical aspects of the maritime sector:
1. Blue Economy
Exploring sustainable utilisation of ocean resources to drive economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation while preserving the health of marine ecosystems.
2. Global Supply Chains
Examining the role of maritime logistics in enhancing the efficiency, security, and sustainability of global trade routes.
3. Maritime Logistics
Analyzing advancements in port infrastructure, shipping technology, and digital innovation to streamline operations and reduce environmental impact.
4. Sustainable Growth
Addressing the need for eco-friendly practices, renewable energy adoption, and robust governance frameworks to ensure long-term resilience in the maritime sector.
Outcomes and Way Forward
The event marked a significant step toward fostering a collaborative approach to maritime governance. It emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainability, and international partnerships to address emerging challenges. The insights and strategies discussed at Sagarmanthan are expected to guide India and the global community in shaping a future-ready maritime ecosystem.
Overview of India’s Maritime Sector
The maritime sector in India is a critical component of the nation’s economy, facilitating around 95% of its trade by volume and 70% by value. With a robust infrastructure comprising 12 major ports and over 200 minor and intermediate ports, the sector serves as a vital link in India’s trade and commerce. Positioned along key global shipping lanes, India plays a significant role in the international maritime ecosystem, with its waters frequented by cargo ships connecting East Asia to America, Europe, and Africa.
Significance in Trade and Commerce
India is the sixteenth-largest maritime nation globally and continues to grow as a hub of shipping and logistics. In 2023, the Indian fleet comprised 1,530 ships, underlining its expanding role in global maritime trade. Additionally, the country ranks as the third-largest ship recycler by tonnage, reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices and a circular economy.
The port sector has demonstrated significant growth over the years. From 2014-15 to 2023-24, the annual cargo-handling capacity at major ports increased from 871.52 million tonnes to 1,629.86 million tonnes, marking an impressive growth rate of 87.01%. In the financial year 2023-24, Indian ports handled 819.22 million tonnes of cargo, showing a 4.45% increase from the previous year. This growth aligns with a surge in merchandise exports, which rose from USD 417 billion in FY22 to USD 451 billion in FY23.
Government Initiatives and Policies
The Indian Government has implemented several measures to accelerate growth in the maritime sector. Key initiatives include:
1. 100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Allowed under the automatic route for port and harbour projects.
2. Tax Incentives: A 10-year tax holiday for enterprises involved in port development.
3. Modernisation Drives: Significant investments have been made to expand and upgrade port infrastructure, enhancing efficiency and capacity.
These policies, combined with India’s growing trade networks and strategic geographic location, reinforce the maritime sector’s role as a pillar of the nation’s economic growth.
Future Prospects
India’s maritime sector is set to play an even greater role in the global economy. With ongoing infrastructure modernization, a focus on sustainable practices like ship recycling, and government-backed initiatives, the industry is poised to support the country’s ambitions as a major player in international trade. Its strategic importance on global shipping routes will continue to attract investment and foster economic resilience.
Recent Developments in India’s Maritime Sector
India’s maritime sector is pivotal to its economic ambitions, with the government implementing strategic policies and initiatives to strengthen the industry. With a focus on enhancing infrastructure, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability, India is setting global benchmarks in port operations and trade facilitation.
Policy Framework and Economic Incentives
The Indian Government has created a conducive environment for maritime growth through the following policies:
– 100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route for port and harbour projects.
– A 10-year tax holiday for enterprises engaged in port development.
These measures have attracted significant investment and fostered partnerships, boosting the sector’s contribution to the national economy.
Key Developments and Initiatives
1. Enhanced Operational Efficiency and Financial Performance
– Container Turnaround Time: Major Indian ports reduced container turnaround time to **22.57 hours** in 2023-24, surpassing global benchmarks.
– Port Financial Achievements:
– Paradip Port reported a ₹1,570 crore (US$ 188 million) net surplus, marking a 21% increase.
– Jawaharlal Nehru Port recorded a net surplus of ₹1,263.94 crore (US$ 151 million).
2. Fleet Expansion Initiative
India plans to establish a new shipping company to expand its fleet by 1,000 ships within a decade. This initiative aims to:
– Reduce foreign freight costs by one-third by 2047.
– Enhance trade revenue through joint ownership with state-run corporations and foreign firms.
3. Port Infrastructure Investments
– Paradip Port became India’s largest major port by cargo volume, handling 145.38 million tonnes in FY24.
– India has committed US$ 82 billion to port infrastructure development by 2035 to bolster the maritime sector’s capacity.
4. Development of Vadhavan Port
In June 2024, the Government approved the construction of a major port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra, with an estimated cost of ₹76,220 crore (US$ 9.14 billion). The project aims to:
– Expand EXIM trade capacity.
– Attract public-private partnerships for infrastructure development.
5. Updated Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP)
In July 2024, the Government revised the SBFAP to enhance shipbuilding competitiveness, offering:
– ₹337 crore (US$ 40.40 million) in financial aid.
– Secured 313 vessel orders worth ₹10,500 crore (US$ 1.26 billion) since the policy’s inception.
6. Panch Karma Sankalp: Green Shipping and Digitisation
Announced in May 2024, the Panch Karma Sankalp focuses on sustainability and innovation:
– Financial Support: 30 per cent funding for Green Shipping initiatives.
– Green Tug Transition Programme: Major ports to procure two green tugs each.
-Green Hydrogen Hubs: Development of Green Hydrogen Hubs at Deendayal Port and VO Chidambaranar Port, Tuticorin.
-Single Window Portal: Streamlining river and sea cruise operations.
-Smart Ports: Transformation of Jawaharlal Nehru Port and VO Chidambaranar Port, Tuticorin, into smart ports by 2025.
Government Schemes in the Maritime Sector
The Indian maritime sector plays a pivotal role in the nation’s trade and economic development, owing to its vast coastline and strategic location. Recognizing its importance, the government has launched several initiatives to modernize infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and promote sustainability. These schemes are designed to position India as a global maritime hub and to ensure its long-term economic and environmental sustainability.
1. Sagarmala Programme
The Sagarmala Programme, led by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, is a flagship initiative aimed at port-led development across India. It leverages the country’s 7,500 km coastline and 14,500 km of navigable waterways to enhance trade and logistics infrastructure.
Key highlights of the Sagarmala Programme include:
– Port infrastructure development: Construction of coastal berths, cruise terminals, and Ro-Pax ferry services.
– Connectivity improvements: Development of road and rail linkages to ports.
– Economic upliftment: Establishment of fish harbors and support for skill development in coastal communities.
As of July 26, 2024, 130 projects worth ₹3,714 crore have been sanctioned under the program, underscoring its significant impact on India’s maritime economy.
2. Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030
The Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 is a comprehensive roadmap aimed at positioning India as a global maritime leader by 2030. This strategic plan encompasses over 150 initiatives across ten critical themes in the maritime sector, including ports, shipyards, inland waterways, and trade facilitation.
Developed with inputs from over 350 stakeholders, MIV 2030 outlines a sustainable and integrated growth strategy. Its key objectives include increasing port capacity, modernizing shipyards, boosting coastal shipping, and enhancing the operational efficiency of inland waterways.
3. Inland Waterways Development
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has identified 26 new national waterways to improve transportation options. These waterways were selected after detailed feasibility studies and are designed to:
– Reduce congestion on road and rail networks.
– Provide cost-effective and sustainable transport solutions.
– Enhance regional trade and connectivity.
The development of inland waterways aligns with India’s vision of promoting environmentally friendly and efficient transportation systems.
4. Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP)
The Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP) reflects the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability. This initiative aims to replace conventional fuel-based harbor tugs at major Indian ports with eco-friendly alternatives powered by sustainable fuels.
The program has set a target to achieve a fully green tug fleet by 2040, which will:
– Reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
– Minimize the environmental footprint of maritime operations.
– Enhance India’s reputation as a sustainable maritime hub.
Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue has set a transformative precedent for India’s maritime aspirations, showcasing the nation’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and international cooperation. By focusing on key themes such as the blue economy, global supply chains, and maritime logistics, the dialogue has catalyzed actionable strategies to enhance India’s maritime infrastructure and governance frameworks. As India strives to become a $10 trillion economy by 2047, the maritime sector’s role in facilitating trade, connectivity, and economic resilience will be pivotal.
With initiatives like the Sagarmala Programme, Maritime India Vision 2030, and the Green Tug Transition Program, India is steering the course toward becoming a global maritime powerhouse. The outcomes of Sagarmanthan signal a brighter, more sustainable future for the global maritime community, where shared efforts will ensure the oceans remain a source of prosperity for generations to come.
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