India seeks to dominate global shipbuilding with new infrastructure initiatives, says MoPSW secretary

India is setting its sights on becoming a maritime leader by 2030, with plans to develop a comprehensive shipbuilding infrastructure and allied facilities within the country. T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of Shipping, Port and Waterways, outlined the ambitious initiative aimed at establishing India as a key global player in the maritime sector. This initiative focuses on consolidating shipbuilding capabilities across various regions, enhancing efficiency, and fostering innovation.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) has emphasised that integrating resources and expertise from multiple states will transform India into a central hub for a wide range of shipping industry services, including building, repairing, flagging, and arbitration. This strategic move is designed to reduce reliance on foreign facilities and boost India’s position on the global shipbuilding stage.

At a recent event held at the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, where the 9th berth was converted into Tuticorin International Container Terminal, Ramachandran highlighted the ongoing efforts to create a robust ecosystem for the shipping industry. He also noted that attracting major global shipyards to invest in India will be a significant challenge but is crucial for accelerating progress.

The government’s drive to bolster the maritime sector is expected to attract investments and accelerate development across states, reinforcing India’s ambition to lead in the global maritime arena.