India a “Steady Lighthouse” in Global Seas: PM Modi
At Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, PM Modi unveils ₹70,000 crore shipbuilding push and major maritime reforms
GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 29th Oct: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described India as a “steady lighthouse in rough global seas” while addressing the Maritime Leaders Conclave during India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai. He unveiled an ambitious ₹70,000 crore initiative to accelerate India’s shipbuilding sector and modernize maritime infrastructure.
Welcoming global delegates from more than 85 countries, Modi said, “India’s maritime sector is advancing with great speed and energy.” He highlighted that India’s first deep-water trans-shipment hub, Vizhinjam Port, is now operational, and Kandla Port has commissioned a megawatt-scale indigenous green hydrogen facility. JNPT’s Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal Phase 2, he added, has doubled capacity, making it the country’s largest container port.
Emphasizing India’s commitment to maritime reform, the Prime Minister noted that the government has replaced over a century-old colonial shipping laws with modern legislation designed for the 21st century. These laws, he said, empower State Maritime Boards, strengthen sustainability, and promote digital governance in port operations.
Modi announced that large ships have been granted infrastructure asset status, a move that will reduce financing costs and attract private investment. “Shipbuilding is now among India’s top priorities,” he said, inviting global investors to seize opportunities under India’s 100% FDI policy in ports and shipping.
“When the global seas are rough, the world looks for a steady lighthouse — India is well poised to play that role with strength and stability,” he asserted, underscoring India’s growing role in ensuring global supply chain resilience and inclusive development.
The Prime Minister was accompanied by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal, Shantanu Thakur, and Kirti Vardhan Singh.
Background:
India Maritime Week 2025, themed “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision”, is being held in Mumbai from October 27–31. The conclave features over 85 participating nations, 500+ exhibitors, and 350 international speakers. The event aligns with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, focusing on port-led growth, shipbuilding, logistics, and maritime skill development to position India as a leading global maritime power.
