Gujarat’s session at India Maritime Week highlighted the need of the hour – to expand the existing resources, and to welcome investors who were willing to help the state’s ascent as India’s “Maritime Gateway,” as said by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
Gujarat now handles more than 40% of the country’s total cargo traffic, with the port of Dahej representing over 80% of India’s LNG-LPG throughput and Alang contributing 98% of India’s ship recycling at the world’s largest yard.
The session highlighted Gujarat’s growth trajectory, rooted in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Samudra se Samruddhi” (Prosperity through the Sea) initiative and the dual focus on “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development with Heritage). Plans were unveiled to increase the total port capacity—major and non-major—across the state to an impressive 3,000 MMTPA by 2047, as part of the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision.
The GMB vision aimed towards Amrit Kaal 2047 consisted of covering all bases. From capacity expansion of non-major ports, ship building, and development of recycling hubs, to progressive maritime policies, and seamless connectivity, these initiatives aimed at placing Gujarat at the focal point of maritime development.
Gujarat’s National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal was presented as a forthcoming hub for maritime culture, history, and economic development. Further discussions centered on port modernization, enhanced connectivity via Sagarmala, investments in the blue economy, the upliftment of coastal communities, and the creation of smart industrial port cities.
Gujarat’s Port City Project predicts the state’s contribution to India’s GDP to rise from 8.3% to 10%. Investments amounting to 2,80,000 crore rupees are predicted, with exports in the range of 1,50,000 crore rupees.
In order to strengthen connectivity, around 20 road projects have been identified, out of which 14 are already under implementation. In railways, 5 projects have been identified and mapped out, out of which 3 are already underway.
The soft-service ecosystem will be redesigned, with Centres of Excellence being set up at Ganpat University and IIT Gandhinagar. These will specialise in marine courses.
Emphasizing skill development and employment, Gujarat positioned its ports as engines not only of trade, but also of industrial growth and job creation. India Maritime Week’s theme, “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision,” highlighted itself in Gujarat’s showcase, demonstrating the state’s integral role in charting a bold new course for India’s maritime future.
