Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the gathering during the Maritime Leaders Conclave, in Mumbai on October 29, 2025. Photo: X/@NarendraModi via PTI
“The progress in India’s maritime domain has been historic. The capability of major ports has been doubled, cruise tourism has been given a boost. Cargo movement has increased 700% in inland areas. Today, India’s ports are considered some of the best ports in the developing world,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday (October 29, 2025).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was speaking at the NESCO Ground for the Maritime Leaders’ Conclave during the India Maritime Week.
During the event, PM Narendra Modi launched initiatives for shipping and ship-building worth ₹2.2 lakh crore, which includes 437 vessels’ acquisition. Several MoUs for sectors like port-led industrialisation, sustainability and ship building have been signed.
“In 2016, the maiden India Maritime Week was held in Mumbai itself. Today, it has become a global summit. 85 countries have participated in it today. This itself sends a very big message. Shipping giants, start-ups, policy makers, and investors are all present here,” PM Modi said.
“The MoUs signed here show the confidence of the world in India’s maritime capabilities. Your presence shows our common commitment to maritime development,” he said.
“2025 is a crucial year for the country’s maritime capabilities. Vizingam port – deep water transit hub has been operational. It is a matter of pride for every Indian. Kandla port, JNPT have shown great capabilities. JNPT’s handling capability has been doubled, making it India’s biggest container port,” he added.
Next generation reforms
Speaking about the reforms taken by the government to improve shipping and port efficiency and safety, PM Modi said, “We are taking big steps. 21st century modern and futuristic laws have been implemented, scrapping old laws. They strengthen sustainability, spread digitisation in ports. The safety of our ports has increased, ease of business has become easier. Coastal Shipping Act has been made in such a way that trade should become easier. This will ensure balanced development of India’s long coastline. Procedures will be standardised, reducing the need for massive documentation.
Logistic performance
Regarding logistic performance of Indian ports, PM Modi said, “In the logistic performance Index of the World Bank, India’s ranking is better.”
“The number of Indian seafarers has increased from 1.25 to 3 lakh today. Our country is now one of the top three countries in this aspect,” he added.
Ship-building our priority too: PM
“Our focus is on blue economy, sustainable coastal development. Ship building our top priority too. There was a time when India was a major centre of water trade.
“In ship-making, India is taking great strides for progress,” PM Modi said. “New alternatives for finance, easy credit will be offered through reforms. Govt to invest ₹70,000 crore for it to boost greenfield and brownfield ports, employment of youth,” he added.
“Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj left a mark on the Arab sea trade routes too,” he said.
“₹76,000 crore is being invested for the Vadhvan Port ,” he added.
“We want to increase India’s capability. We welcome your ideas, innovation and investment. PPP has been increasing. We are giving incentives to states to attract investment,” he said.
Vibrant democracy and reliability
“When the global seas are rough, the world looks for a steady lighthouse. India can play that role very strongly. Among global tensions, India represents autonomy, inclusive growth,” PM Modi said.
Published – October 29, 2025 06:08 pm IST
