India Set to Become Global Maritime Powerhouse;: MoS Shantanu Thakur

Reinforcing the Government’s commitment to port-led development as a cornerstone of India’s export competitiveness and economic growth, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) is implementing major initiatives to modernise maritime infrastructure, strengthen multimodal connectivity and improve logistics efficiency across the country.

Addressing the CII EXIM Conference 2026 in Kolkata, the Hon’ble Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur, highlighted the central role of the maritime sector in India’s global trade expansion and the vision to position India as a leading shipping hub by 2047.

Shri Shantanu Thakur said: “Nearly 95% of India’s trade by volume and around 70% by value is handled through our ports. This clearly shows that the maritime sector is not merely a transport channel — it is a strategic enabler of India’s global trade ambitions.”

The conference brought together policymakers, industry leaders and international partners to deliberate on strengthening India’s export ecosystem through improved trade infrastructure and logistics efficiency.

The inaugural session was attended by Mr Aung Myo Thein, Consul General of Myanmar; Mr Shashwat Goenka, Chairman, CII Eastern Region; and Mr Sandeep Kumar, Chairman, CII ER International Trade Subcommittee, along with senior industry representatives.(updated on 26th February 2026)