The maritime sector is a vital component of India’s economy, with a vast coastline and numerous ports that facilitate global trade. The industry handles 95% of the country’s cargo volume and 75% by value, making it a key driver of economic growth and energy security. To further develop the sector, the government has launched several initiatives, including Maritime India Vision 2030, Sagarmala, and PM Gati Shakti, which aim to expand port capacities, improve logistics, and enable seamless multimodal connectivity.
The government is also promoting coastal shipping and waterway connectivity, with a focus on achieving port carbon neutrality and increasing the use of renewable energy. The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) plays a crucial role in regulating maritime safety, compliance, and seafarer training, and is working towards a more integrated Maritime Administration.
A significant development in the sector is the rollout of e-Samudra, a comprehensive digital platform that will streamline and unify maritime operations. The platform, scheduled to launch in October 2025, will host over 63 modules covering ship registration, certification, port services, and more, enabling digitized certificates, smart notifications, and efficient tracking. E-Samudra is designed to modernize maritime governance, enhance safety standards, and promote green shipping practices.
The digital transformation is aligned with India’s broader vision of technological advancement and sustainability, and incorporates cutting-edge tools like geospatial platforms, maritime security systems, and data analytics. The initiative aims to improve efficiency, reduce manual processes, and foster a customer-centric approach, with comprehensive training and interoperability ensuring smooth adoption.
The development of e-Samudra is supported by the expertise of CMS Computers and guided by national policies like Maritime India Vision 2030. The initiative envisions a future where India emerges as a global maritime leader, driving economic growth, ensuring energy security, and advancing sustainable, technology-driven maritime governance. With its extensive coastline and strategic location, India is well-positioned to become a major player in the global maritime industry, and the government’s initiatives are aimed at harnessing this potential to drive growth and development. Overall, the maritime sector is poised for significant growth and development, driven by government initiatives, technological advancements, and a focus on sustainability.