In a decisive move to strengthen maritime resilience, the government is working on a significant expansion plan aimed at boosting India’s shipping strength. The roadmap includes the addition of 62 vessels in FY27, backed by an investment of ₹51,383 crore, which is expected to create an additional capacity of 2.85 million gross tonnage (GT).
The government has convened a high-level inter-ministerial meeting to review the evolving situation in the Strait of Hormuz, while pivoting towards accelerating India’s shipping capabilities. The meeting underscored a renewed focus on building a robust and future-ready maritime ecosystem to safeguard the country’s trade interests.
Multi-ministry coordination gains momentum
Chaired by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, the review brought together key stakeholders from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, oil PSUs, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, Directorate General of Shipping, National Shipping Board and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). The discussions reflected a coordinated push to align critical sectors linked to maritime supply chains.
Strengthening capacity across key segments
Amid rising global uncertainties, the Minister emphasised the urgent need to expand India’s shipping fleet across multiple categories, including container vessels, LPG carriers, crude carriers, green tugs, dredging vessels and tankers. The review also covered cargo flows, vessel movements and operational preparedness, with a strong focus on ensuring supply chain continuity in the face of external disruptions.
SCI JV progress under review
The meeting also assessed the status of the proposed joint venture between Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) and oil PSUs to acquire 59 vessels, a move seen as critical to strengthening India’s energy logistics and maritime independence.
Policy push through structured white paper
In a bid to translate strategy into action, Sonowal directed all departments to prepare a comprehensive white paper outlining existing gaps, clear targets and a time-bound roadmap for the maritime sector. The exercise will involve close coordination with key ministries, including Petroleum and Natural Gas, Chemicals and Fertilisers, and Commerce and Industry.
Focus on safety and global competitiveness
Reiterating the importance of maritime safety, the Minister stressed heightened vigilance in sensitive zones to ensure the security of Indian seafarers. The meeting concluded with a call for stronger alignment and execution across ministries to position India as a globally competitive maritime nation.
Leadership commentary
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, said: “Under the visionary leadership of Narendra Modi, we are positioning shipping at the core of India’s economic resilience. Our journey towards Atmanirbhar shipping is a strategic necessity, and we are advancing a roadmap to add 62 vessels in FY 2026–27, backed by ₹51,383 crore, creating an additional 2.85 million GT capacity.”