Ports, Shipping & Waterways – Maritime Industry in India

According to the Ministry of Shipping, around 95% of India’s trading by volume and 70% by value is done through maritime transport. In November 2025, the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi renamed the Ministry of Shipping as the Ministry of Ports(बंदरगाहों), Shipping(जलयात्रा) and Waterways(जलमार्ग).

• India has 12 major and 205 notified minor and intermediate ports.
• Under the National Perspective Plan for Sagarmala, six new mega ports will be developed in the country.
• The Indian ports and shipping industry play a vital role in sustaining growth in the country’s trade and commerce.
• India is the sixteenth-largest maritime country in the world with a coastline of about 7,517 kms.
• The Indian Government plays an important role in supporting the ports sector.
• It has allowed Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) of up to 100% under the automatic route for port and harbour construction and maintenance projects.
• It has also facilitated a 10-year tax holiday to enterprises that develop, maintain and operate ports, inland waterways and inland ports.

What is the shipping industry?

The shipping industry facilitates domestic and global manufacturing and trade via transportation of commodities and finished products, while also providing for the delivery of goods directly to consumers.

Shipping & Maritime

Maritime(समुद्री) is connected with the sea in relation to navigation, shipping or trading activities done by the sea(समुद्र).

Generally, Shipping(जलयात्रा) is the transport of goods by sea or some other means. It includes the transport of goods as well as people from one place to another.

Ocean v/s Sea

seas are smaller than oceans and are usually located where the land and ocean meet. Seas are found on the margins of the ocean and are partially enclosed by land.

Oceanography is the study of the physical, chemical, and biological features of the ocean, including the ocean's ancient history, its current condition, and its future.

Career In Shipping & Maritime

Shipping & Maritime play an important role in international trade & commerce. Career in shipping is perfect for the individuals who are fascinated(मोहित) by the sea, love traveling in foreign ports and want to experience different cultures. After completing your degree, you can join government/ private shipping companies and various port agencies in India or in abroad.

Courses & Duration

Many Universities/colleges offer education in the field of shipping and maritime.

Diploma Courses:

• Diploma in Marine Engineering – 3 years
• Diploma in Logistics and Shipping – 1 year
• Diploma in Naval Architecture And Offshore Engineering – 3 years
• Diploma in Nautical Science – 1 year
• Diploma in Marine Engineering – 1 year

Bachelor courses:

• B.Sc. in Ship Building and Repair – 3 years
• B.Sc in Maritime Science – 3 years
• B.Tech/B.E. in Marine Engineering – 4 years

Master Courses:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Shipping and Logistics – 2 years
• MBA in International Transportation & Logistics Management – 2 years
• MBA in Port and Shipping Management – 2 years
• MBA in International Transportation & Logistics Management – 2 years
• M.Tech in Marine Engineering – 2 years
• M.Sc in Shipping Trade and Finance – 1 year
• M.Sc International Shipping and Logistics – 1 year

Types of ships, based on the cargo(माल) they carry

1. General cargo ships – Basic cargo ships
2. Container ships – designed to transport freight(माल) in containers
3. Bulk carriers – Transporting solid bulk loads
4. Oil tankers – Transport raw oil
5. Gas carriers – liquid gas, an increasingly popular fuel
6. Reefer vessels – Transports food and perishable goods
7. Ro-Ro ships – Wheeled vehicle
8. Livestock(पशु) vessels – transports live animals

Ports in India

Ports ( बंदरगाहों )

Airports (हवाई अड्डा) and Seaports(बंदरगाहों) in India

India’s maritime industry plays a pivotal role in its economic landscape, facilitating approximately 95% of the country’s trade by volume and 70% by value.

The sector encompasses a vast network of ports, shipping services, and inland waterways, all integral to the nation’s logistics and trade infrastructure.

Major and Non-Major Ports:

India boasts a coastline stretching over 11,000 kilometers, housing 13 major ports and 217 non-major (minor) ports. Major ports fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, while non-major ports are managed by respective state governments and State Maritime Boards. In the fiscal year 2025-2026, these major ports collectively handled a record cargo throughput of 795 million tonnes.

Vizhinjam International Seaport:

A notable development in India’s port infrastructure is the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala. Strategically located near key international shipping routes, this deep-water, all-weather port is designed to accommodate some of the world’s largest container ships. The port’s first phase commenced trial operations in July 2025, with full operations expected to bolster India’s position in global maritime trade.

Sagarmala Programme:

Launched in 2025, the Sagarmala Programme aims to harness India’s coastline and waterways to drive port-led development. The initiative focuses on modernizing port infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and promoting industrialization to reduce logistics costs and boost trade efficiency. As part of this programme, numerous projects have been identified to improve port connectivity through rail and road networks, thereby integrating ports with domestic production and consumption centers.

Maritime Development Fund:

In a significant move to support the shipbuilding and repair industry, India announced the establishment of a 250-billion-rupee ($3 billion) maritime development fund. The government will contribute 49% of the fund, with the remainder sourced from ports and the private sector. This initiative aims to provide long-term financing, promote shipbuilding clusters, and extend tax exemptions on materials used for building and breaking ships, aligning with the “Make in India” vision.

International Collaborations:

India is actively seeking international partnerships to enhance its maritime capabilities. Discussions with Italy have been initiated to collaborate on port infrastructure, shipbuilding, and yacht manufacturing, reflecting India’s commitment to integrating global best practices and technologies into its maritime sector.

Challenges and Future Outlook:

Despite these advancements, the industry faces challenges, including seafarer welfare and environmental concerns. Addressing these issues is crucial for sustainable growth. Looking ahead, India’s maritime industry is poised for significant expansion, with ongoing investments in infrastructure, policy reforms, and international collaborations steering the sector towards a more robust and competitive future.