Government reviews measures to strengthen maritime capacity

Mumbai: The government on Wednesday reviewed measures to strengthen maritime capacity amid evolving global geopolitical and trade dynamics, and also held a high-level interaction with the National Shipping Board to address emerging challenges in the domestic shipping sector.

Chaired by Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the meeting brought together members of the National Shipping Board (NSB), industry leaders, maritime stakeholders and senior ministry officials to deliberate on operational issues and policy priorities affecting the sector, an official release said.

The interaction was attended by NSB Chairperson Sameer Kumar Khare, along with other board members and representatives from the shipping industry.

During the meeting, participants discussed challenges faced by the shipping industry, which has been impacted by recent global geopolitical developments, supply chain management and rising operational pressures on maritime trade, according to the release.

The deliberations focused on identifying policy interventions to strengthen India's shipping ecosystem, enhance fleet capacity and ensure resilience in maritime logistics.

The minister took note and directed officials to prepare a roadmap to resolve them.

"Through strategic reforms, infrastructure expansion and close collaboration with stakeholders, we are unlocking the immense potential of the blue economy and strengthening India's position in global maritime trade," Sonowal said.

Emphasising the importance of dialogue with industry stakeholders, Sonowal highlighted the role of the NSB as a critical advisory platform for addressing sectoral issues and shaping policy direction, according to the release.

The government's engagement with the board comes at a time when global maritime trade faces heightened geopolitical uncertainties and shifting supply chains, prompting India to reinforce its shipping capabilities and operational preparedness.

The meeting also reviewed progress under major national initiatives, such as Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and Maritime India Vision 2030, which seek to expand port infrastructure, boost shipping capacity and position India as a leading global maritime hub.