Govt on track to complete Vadhvan Port by 2030: Minister Sonowal
Union Minister for Ports Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized the crucial need for the upcoming Vadhvan Port in India and assured that the government is committed to completing it by 2030. Speaking at the ETInfra Global Ports and Shipping Summit 2026 in Mumbai, Sonowal underscored the significance of the Vadhvan Port in meeting the growing cargo demands of the country.
Fast Growth in Cargo Handling at Indian Ports
Sonowal highlighted the remarkable achievement of Vizhinjam International Seaport, which became the fastest Indian port to handle 2 million TEUs within just 18 months of operation, doubling its annual capacity. This rapid growth indicates a pressing need for additional port infrastructure like the Vadhvan Port to cater to the escalating cargo demands that are expected to surpass the current capacity soon.
Government’s Initiatives to Boost Shipping Sector
The government, under Sonowal’s leadership, has approved a substantial ₹70,000-crore package to enhance the shipping and shipbuilding sectors. Additionally, a Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme worth ₹10,000 crore has been introduced this year to further bolster the maritime industry in India. Sonowal also unveiled plans for a domestic fleet expansion program, aiming to construct 437 vessels worth approximately ₹2.2 lakh crore and 19 million gross tonnage over the next two decades. Moreover, South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is establishing a $4-billion shipyard in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, contributing towards India’s goal of becoming one of the top five shipbuilding nations globally by 2047.
India’s Position in Global Shipping Industry
Sonowal proudly announced that India currently stands as the second-largest supplier of seafarers to the global shipping industry, with ambitions to become the largest in the near future. With ongoing investments and strategic initiatives, India’s maritime sector is poised for significant growth and international recognition.
