New Delhi: Sagarmanthan – The Great Oceans Dialogue, South Asia’s largest maritime thought leadership summit, commenced today, bringing together global policymakers, maritime experts, and industry leaders to chart a sustainable future for the maritime sector. Organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), the two-day event features participants from 61 countries and over 1,700 delegates, including ministers, former heads of state, and maritime scholars.
The summit was inaugurated by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, alongside prominent international dignitaries, including Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Christos Stylianides, Maldives’ Minister of State for Fisheries and Ocean Resources Dr. Amzath Ahmed, and Argentina’s National Representative for the Province of Rio Negro Ms. Maria Lorena Villaverde.
In his keynote address, Sarbananda Sonowal outlined India’s ambitious Maritime Vision 2047, aimed at transforming the nation into a global maritime leader. “Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, we aim to invest ₹80 lakh crore to enhance port capacity, shipping, shipbuilding, and inland waterways. Key projects include the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala and mega ports in Maharashtra and Nicobar, all while integrating green energy and digital innovation into maritime infrastructure,” Sonowal said.
Highlighting India’s strategic role in global trade with its 7,500 km coastline, Sonowal emphasized initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor, which aim to bolster India’s position in global trade routes.
Greek Minister Christos Stylianides called for global collaboration to address maritime challenges. “Sagarmanthan exemplifies how international partnerships can transform challenges into opportunities. By optimizing efficiency, minimizing pollution, and ensuring resilience, we can make the maritime sector a beacon of sustainability,” he said.
Echoing these sentiments, Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council, emphasized leveraging India’s resources and expertise to position the nation at the forefront of the maritime industry. He added, “We have the potential to build 10-12% of the world’s ships within a decade while advancing sustainable practices.”
On the sidelines of the summit, Sarbananda Sonowal held a bilateral meeting with Greek Minister Christos Stylianides, focusing on expanding maritime cooperation. The two nations agreed to double bilateral trade from the current $1.94 billion by 2030 and enhance collaboration in maritime infrastructure, renewable energy, and education. They also agreed to develop a Joint Working Group on maritime and shipping issues and collaborate on India’s National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat.
The summit showcased India’s progress in decarbonized shipping, port digitization, and renewable energy integration, underscoring the nation’s commitment to a sustainable and innovative maritime future. Discussions spanned topics such as maritime connectivity, global governance, and the socio-economic potential of coastal communities.
Minister of State Shantanu Thakur stressed the importance of coastal community development, stating, “Our ports are more than commerce; they represent connectivity, collaboration, and care for both the environment and society. The oceans must remain a global priority for ecological preservation and innovation.”
With sessions addressing pressing maritime issues, Sagarmanthan serves as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration. As participants deliberate on policies and innovations, the summit aims to shape the future of the global maritime industry while positioning India as a leader in sustainable maritime practices.