Expanding Horizons: Enhancing maritime capacity and capability
India’s ports and shipping sector are currently undergoing a significant structural transformation aimed at boosting capacity, improving port-led connectivity, embracing digitalization, automation, and promoting green initiatives. These strategic investments in transshipment infrastructure, inland waterways, and shipbuilding and repair are poised to bolster the country’s maritime capabilities, enhancing supply chain resilience, efficiency, and reducing logistics costs. Moreover, these developments are paving the way for India to play a more prominent role in global trade, maritime services, and emerging green shipping networks.
Increasing Cargo Traffic and Capacity Enhancement
With a focus on enhancing cargo handling capacity, reducing turnaround time, and advancing shipments, India’s ports have witnessed a substantial growth in traffic. Major ports have accounted for 54-56% of the total traffic handled, while non-major ports contribute the remaining 44-46%. During the fiscal year 2025-26, major ports experienced a 7% growth, handling 914.73 million tonnes (mt), while non-major ports registered a 1.4% growth, handling 753.07 mt compared to the previous year. The increase in cargo traffic has been attributed to robust demand, modernization efforts, and improved operational efficiency. The primary commodities handled by Indian ports include petroleum oil and lubricants (POL) and crude products, containerized cargo, and various types of coal.
Furthermore, both major and non-major ports have seen a steady increase in cargo handling capacity to accommodate growing trade volumes. By December 2025, major ports’ capacity reached 1,717.9 mt, while non-major ports reached 1,090.29 mt by September 2025. In tandem with the expansion of maritime logistics, inland waterways have witnessed a surge in cargo movement, with national waterways (NWs) handling 218.24 mt during 2025-26, marking a notable growth of 49.64% compared to the previous year. The government aims to boost the modal share of waterways from 6% to 12% by 2047, reducing reliance on road transport.
Digital Advancements Driving Efficiency
Indian ports are embracing a digital transformation to enhance efficiency, reduce turnaround times, and strengthen the country’s position in global logistics. For instance, V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Tuticorin has introduced a digital twin platform integrating IoT sensors, GPS, LiDAR, drones, and CCTV for real-time monitoring of port operations. Similarly, Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNP) has adopted AI-based technologies for improving tender evaluations and vessel traffic management. The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has partnered with Neptunus Power Plant Services to develop indigenous condition-monitoring technology for marine engines, promoting predictive maintenance and reducing downtime.
Promoting Sustainable and Green Port Operations
In a bid to promote sustainable practices, Indian ports are transitioning towards integrated green-port ecosystems by incorporating renewable energy, clean fuels, electrification, circular resource use, and lower-emission logistics. Ports are increasingly integrating solar and wind power to reduce reliance on conventional electricity, with New Mangalore Port achieving 100% solar power integration in 2025. Additionally, ports like Deendayal, Paradip, and V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) have been designated as green hydrogen hubs, with VOC port commissioning a green hydrogen pilot project to power street lighting and EV charging.
As India’s ports and shipping sector continue to evolve through strategic investments, digital advancements, and sustainable practices, the country is poised to strengthen its maritime capabilities, expand global trade networks, and lead in green shipping initiatives. India’s Maritime Industry Embarks on a Green Transformation
India’s maritime industry is undergoing a significant transformation towards sustainability and growth, with a focus on renewable energy, electrification, and advanced shipbuilding. Under the Maritime India Vision 2030, the government aims to achieve ambitious targets including over 60% renewable energy use, 50% electrification of port equipment, 30% lower CO2 emissions per tonne of cargo, and 20% lower freshwater consumption per tonne of cargo.
Shore-power standard implementation and electrification efforts are already underway in Indian ports like Jawaharlal Nehru Port, enabling ships to draw electricity while at berth and reduce emissions from auxiliary engines during port stays. Additionally, the government has approved financial assistance for a ship repair facility at Vadinar, equipped with modern docks and marine infrastructure to support domestic vessel repairs.
Shipbuilding and ship repair industries are also experiencing a surge in development, supported by government policies and investments in specialized industrial clusters. The Maharashtra government has approved the Shipbuilding, Ship Repair and Ship Recycling Policy, 2025, while Tamil Nadu unveiled the Shipbuilding Policy 2026 to position the state as a global hub for sustainable shipbuilding and advanced maritime technology.
The National Shipbuilding Mission (NSbM) has granted approval for the development of mega shipbuilding clusters in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat, with significant shipbuilding capacities. Goa Shipyard Limited and Cochin Shipyard are also planning new shipbuilding facilities, reflecting the government’s commitment to creating dedicated industrial infrastructure for the maritime sector.
Port connectivity and cruise tourism are emerging opportunities in India’s maritime sector, with initiatives aimed at improving cargo movement efficiency and attracting international cruise operators. The country’s strategic location along major trade routes, extensive coastline, and growing role in global seaborne trade position India as a key player in the global maritime industry.
As India continues to prioritize sustainability, growth, and innovation in its maritime sector, the future looks promising for the country’s role in the global maritime industry. With a strong focus on green initiatives, advanced infrastructure development, and strategic partnerships, India is set to make waves in the maritime world.
By Sidra Siddiquie, Marine News Editor and Naval Architect if necessary) to improve readability and flow.
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