Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a free, open, secure and rules-based maritime order, saying greater international cooperation on oceans is essential for peace, prosperity and sustainable development.
In a written message to the third edition of Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue in New Delhi, Modi said developments in one part of the world can have consequences far beyond national borders, increasing the importance of dialogue and cooperation on maritime issues.
The conference is being organised by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).
“Our vision is of a free, open, secure and rules-based maritime order that brings greater peace, prosperity and progress for all. I am confident that Sagarmanthan will give greater strength to this larger vision,” PM Modi said in his message.
India Links Maritime Development with Viksit Bharat
Modi highlighted India’s long maritime history, referring to the ancient port city of Lothal, the Chola dynasty and the naval activities of Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
He said Indian sailors and traders historically carried goods, ideas and culture across maritime routes, and linked the country’s current maritime ambitions with the government’s Viksit Bharat objective of making India a developed nation by 2047.
“India’s relationship with the ocean is also about responsibility. As we build a stronger maritime economy, we are protecting the health of our oceans and coastal ecosystems. India’s maritime vision extends across regions and oceans and is built on cooperation, trust, mutual respect and mutual benefit. We believe the oceans must become a source of shared prosperity, where every country has a voice and an opportunity to grow,” wrote Prime Minister.
Modi also pointed to changes in India’s port infrastructure and vessel turnaround performance.
“India is looking at the sea with a renewed sense of purpose. The journey towards Viksit Bharat by 2047 is also a journey towards a stronger and more capable maritime India. We are preparing for a new era of shipbuilding and green shipping. Our major ports have nearly doubled their capacity, while turnaround times have come down significantly,” said PM Modi.
Focus on Green Shipping and Ocean Science
The Prime Minister said India is working to develop its shipbuilding and green-shipping capabilities while also investing in ocean science and exploration.
“India has also brought in new-generation maritime laws to create a modern framework for the sector. At the same time, we are investing in ocean science and exploration so that we can understand our seas better and make responsible use of their immense potential,” added PM Modi.
He also said Indian seafarers now constitute the world’s second-largest maritime workforce, with Indian professionals working across international shipping routes.
According to Modi, India’s maritime development strategy combines economic expansion with efforts to protect ocean health and coastal ecosystems.
“We believe the oceans must become a source of shared prosperity, where every country has a voice and an opportunity to grow,” PM Modi said.
He expressed the expectation that the Sagarmanthan dialogue would generate new ideas and partnerships around maritime cooperation and contribute to discussions on the future of the global maritime sector.
