19SEPTEMBER 2025TK Ramachandran, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways at the Maritime India Conference and Expo 2025 that was conducted recently spoke about India's maritime vision, highlighting policy reforms, green hydrogen hubs, global connectivity, and the Sagarmala scheme. Key areas include ship recycling, innovation hubs, and cruise tourism, with investments projected at $1 trillion by 2047. Sustainability, digitalization, and R&D were underlined as transformative drivers for the sector's growth.INDUSTRY INSIGHTSEXPANDING HORIZONS & ENHANCING CONNECTIVITY IN THE MARITIME SECTORThe Maritime India Conference and Expo 2025 that was organized by FICCI, was hailed as a matter of honor and privilege for its participants. The successful execution of the event drew praise. Referencing to the vision of the Honorable Prime Minister, key aspects of the Maritime India Vision (MI) and Maritime Amritkal Vision were shared with the audience and stakeholders, emphasizing sustainability, connectivity as well as the sector's horizon. The Maritime Amritkal Vision, unveiled during the Global Maritime India summit in October, serves as the important foundation for much of the ministry's current work. Under the leadership of the Honorable Minister, the vision's goals were being systematically addressed, with systems being established in order to ensure effective implementation. Industry collaboration was highlighted as a key positive, with a strong representation of the maritime sector at the event. Stakeholders were encouraged to engage with the various schemes being implemented or conceptualized by the ministry that is focused on the primary verticals such as ports, shipping and waterways.Transformative Growth in Ports, Shipbuilding, & Inland WaterwaysThe ports sector witnessed significant growth with port capabilities doubling, increased efficiencies, and turnaround times reduced from 4 days to just 1. Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) have surged with over 100 awarded. Mega projects that include Vadhavan and Galathea Bay are actively progressing, presenting substantial opportunities for global investors in technology, automation, deep-sea mining as well as dredging. The ministry has committed to facilitating smooth investments and offering necessary policy support.Significant importance is being given to ship building, repair as well as recycling. The introduction of the Maritime Development Fund addresses financial challenges while schemes focusing on insurance, taxation as well as TK Ramachandran, Secretary - Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Government of IndiaTK Ramachandran, Secretary - Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
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