Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal delivered a keynote lecture at Copenhagen Business School (CBS) on Friday. Addressing students of the prestigious Blue MBA Executive Program, he outlined India’s maritime ambitions, its port-led development model, and its vision for green and sustainable economic growth.
Sonowal’s talk focused on India’s emerging role in the global logistics sector, the growth of the Sagarmala project, and the government’s commitment to decarbonizing its port and shipping operations.
India’s Maritime Vision Aligned with Global Priorities
Minister Sonowal emphasized that India’s maritime strategy aims to place the country among the top global maritime hubs. He explained that under the Sagarmala Programme, India is building new ports, modernizing existing ones, and enhancing coastal connectivity.
“Our maritime journey is anchored in sustainability, self-reliance, and strategic partnerships,” Sonowal said. “With our long coastline, we see the ocean as a driver of economic progress and ecological balance.”
He shared that India’s ports are already embracing smart technologies, clean energy, and digitalization to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
Green Growth through Port-Led Development
Sonowal underscored that India’s economic future is closely tied to its coastal and inland waterway infrastructure. The country has invested significantly in green ports, LNG bunkering, and shore-to-ship power systems.
India’s first fully solar-powered port and LNG-powered vessels are now operational, he informed. Through these efforts, India plans to reduce carbon emissions from shipping by 30% by 2030.
The minister also highlighted India’s support for the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) goals on decarbonization.
“Our government believes green growth is not a luxury but a necessity. We are committed to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable maritime economy,” he said.
India as a Global Logistics and Shipping Hub
The minister noted India’s strategic geographic position as a critical factor in its logistics and global trade ambitions. He outlined the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which integrates roads, railways, ports, and airports for faster cargo movement.
Sonowal pointed out the recent rise of Indian ports in global rankings. Ports like Mundra, JNPT, and Visakhapatnam have seen massive capacity expansion and improved turnaround times.
“We are making India a trans-shipment hub for South Asia. We aim to become a logistics leader, not just for our needs but for the world,” he added.
India and Denmark: A Growing Maritime Partnership
Speaking at the Copenhagen Business School, Sonowal stressed the importance of India-Denmark maritime cooperation. He praised Denmark’s expertise in sustainable shipping technologies and called for increased collaboration in green fuels, shipbuilding, and training.
The lecture also explored ways the two nations can co-create innovations in renewable energy integration at ports and hydrogen-based shipping.
Sonowal thanked the CBS faculty and students for the opportunity to present India’s vision and invited them to participate in India’s maritime transformation through research and exchange programs.
Encouraging Youth Participation in Maritime Growth
In his closing remarks, Sonowal urged students to explore careers in shipping, port management, and marine sustainability.
“Young minds will drive the maritime world of tomorrow. India welcomes global learners and entrepreneurs to join our voyage,” he said.
The session ended with an interactive Q&A, where students expressed curiosity about India’s inland waterways, green hydrogen use, and maritime startups.
To learn more about India’s maritime development projects and green port initiatives, visit the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. For academic collaboration, explore Copenhagen Business School’s Blue MBA.
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IMO Decarbonization Strategy.
