Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Maritime Leaders Conclave in Mumbai, outlining India’s long-term strategy to develop a robust blue economy and establish the nation as a global maritime hub over the next 25 years. Emphasising the oceans as vital to India’s economic and strategic future, Modi described the maritime sector as the country’s “steady lighthouse” guiding growth amid global uncertainty.

The Prime Minister said India’s maritime transformation is already underway, powered by port-led development, digital shipping systems, and investments in logistics and shipbuilding. He pointed out that port efficiency and surplus revenues have increased significantly in the past decade, demonstrating India’s capacity to manage large-scale maritime operations with global standards of performance.

Modi also highlighted reforms in maritime governance, noting that outdated shipping laws have been replaced to attract greater private participation and international investment. He underscored upcoming projects such as deep-water ports, modern container terminals, and the integration of green hydrogen facilities at key maritime locations as essential steps toward a cleaner and more competitive sector.

A major theme of his address was sustainability. Modi said the blue economy will not only create employment and trade opportunities but also ensure responsible management of marine resources. He stressed that growth must go hand in hand with ecological balance, technology-driven transparency, and coastal resilience.

The conclave, attended by global maritime leaders, innovators, and policy experts, reaffirmed India’s commitment to building a future-ready maritime ecosystem. Modi concluded by urging collaboration between government and industry to make India a leading maritime nation and a driving force in the global blue economy by 2047.