PM invites investment in India’s maritime sector

November 2, 2025

Written by Abhishek Vij:

The US easing the ban on Iran’s Chabahar port for six months underscores a shift that benefits India’s ambitious maritime strategy. The move supports India’s direct trade route with Afghanistan and dovetails with Prime Minister Modi’s effort to attract global investment in India’s strategic maritime sector. The government’s policy is grounded in India’s ideal investment climate for maritime development.
India’s long coastline, strategic trade routes, and modern ports create fertile ground for maritime development. The Prime Minister aims to elevate maritime infrastructure and innovation, mirroring successes in other transit sectors. The Indian Ports Bill 2025 modernizes maritime governance, enabling India to shift from historic neglect to aspiring for global standards. These legislative reforms are designed to unlock India’s potential in maritime trade.

To increase trade, sea travel will be made attractive and dynamic. Secondly, sea routes will be streamlined for exporting and importing goods from abroad. To this end, the Prime Minister has invited foreign investment through the Shipbuilding Assistance Scheme, the Maritime Development Board, and the New Construction Development Scheme. This is expected to attract foreign investment of over Rs. 4.5 lakh crore. A comprehensive maritime sector package of Rs. 70,000 crore has been approved for port development. As part of India’s plan to become self-reliant, this scheme will promote shipbuilding in India. The Prime Minister has held discussions with CEOs and leading shareholders of companies in this regard.

The PM stated that we have paid attention to this since 2014, but now more attention will be paid. The government is also paying special attention to the Navy. Along with the Army and Navy, India is strengthening the Navy. The INS Vikrant warship is a major asset to our Navy. By challenging our adversary, we are saying that if Operation Sindoor 2.0 occurs, even Pakistani ports will not be spared. This is likely a reference to Karachi. Regarding India’s solid development, the government certainly wants to achieve balanced development. In such balanced development, the maritime sector, in addition to land and air, cannot be neglected. When this is developed, India will undoubtedly move towards developing the blue economy. This invitation from Modi in itself is welcome and is another step towards the balanced development of India.