Joining Singapore Maritime Week with India’s Shri Sarbananda Sonowal
In a significant step in the global maritime landscape, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal has joined Global Maritime Leaders at Singapore Maritime Week (SMW). This meeting marks a pivotal moment for India and Singapore, as both countries are dedicated to strengthening their mutual maritime and trade connections.
The Meeting with Prime Ministers
Shri Sonowal’s visit to Singapore is part of an effort to strengthen bilateral maritime ties. At the event, he discussed key challenges and India’s vision to channel growth in the maritime sector, emphasizing the need for strengthening maritime connectivity and supply chains while fostering a sustainable future.
India’s Maritime Vision
On paper, India’s maritime strategy seems grounded in “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”—a principle of mutual respect, equity, and shared prosperity. The country has clearly defined its maritime policies, such as ONOP (Marine Operations Platform), NLP (Marine Logistics), and MAITRI (Maritime Infrastructure for Today’s Railways), which aim to streamline port services, reduce transaction times, and enable real-time data. These initiatives are not just about shipping but about creating a modern maritime ecosystem.
Role of India in Virtual Trade Corridors
Shri Sonowal also emphasized the importance of Virtual Trade Corridors, particularly with Singapore’s UAE. By creating these corridors for seamless cargo movement, India is playing a pivotal role in fostering global trade connectivity.
Investments and Future Goals
The Indian government has invested USD 20 billion in improving port infrastructure to enhance logistics, port connectivity, and trade facilitation. By 2047, the country aims to rank top-five globally through policy reforms and infrastructure upgrades. Port growth targets a global cargo share of 15%, supported by a Maritime Development Fund for fleet and shipyard expansion.
Sustainability and Innovation
Shri Sonowal highlighted India’s commitment to sustainability in port infrastructure, promoting low-emission shipping and supporting innovation in low-carbon vessels. The country is also leading initiatives like the 3G Hub Ports (Kandla, Tuticorin, Paradip) to promote alternative fuel adoption and green hydrogen production.
The Green Shipping Corridor
In his concluding remarks, he emphasized the importance of integrating Green Shipping Corridors, including the proposed India-Singapore Green and Digital Corridor, as a means for clean energy and smart logistics. These initiatives aim to drive global port efficiency, stronger cargo flows, and investor confidence.
Sustainability and Global Trends
Shri Sonowal’s remarks underscore his vision of sustainability and green connectivity, which are key themes in global maritime trends, including climate change and digital disruption. By connecting ports through partnerships, he positions Singapore as a leader in sustainable shipping, fostering global connections for shared prosperity.
Conclusion
Joining SMW with Shri Sarbananda Sonowal is not just a meeting between two countries; it’s a commitment to strengthening our maritime and trade ties, setting the stage for future innovation and collaboration. By embracing sustainability, green technology, and sustainable connectivity, India continues to lead in global maritime trends, making him an inspiration for all who engage with our oceans and ships.
Call to Action
As we look to the future of maritime connections, let’s promote ports as key bridges of progress. Together, let’s build a world where ports are not just destinations but vital hubs for global trade, connectivity, and shared growth.