A Perspective on Maritime Development Opportunities for India

G Raghuram*

India 2019s ambition to become a five trillion-dollar economy hinges on the development of a robust and sustainable maritime infrastructure. With 11,000 km of coastline and a growing network of major and non-major ports, the maritime sector handles the majority of the country\u2019s trade by volume and value. This paper explores eight key pillars of maritime development: the rise of non-major ports, increasing containerization, the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs), the Sagarmala initiative, multimodal connectivity, regulatory reforms, port-shipping interface, and comprehensive coastline management. It highlights how states like Gujarat have driven non-major port growth through flexible policies and PPP models, and how containerized cargo is reshaping port technology and investment needs. The importance of rail-based hinterland connectivity, especially through dedicated freight corridors and multi-modal logistics parks, is emphasized to enhance cargo movement efficiency. Regulatory evolution, such as updated maritime laws and the adoption of a landlord port model, aims to create a level playing field and encourage foreign and domestic investment. Additionally, the paper underscores the need for strengthening coastal shipping, indigenous shipbuilding, and port innovation through smart and green technologies. It concludes with a call for holistic coastline governance that balances industrial development, environmental sustainability, community livelihoods, and national security. Collaborative engagement among policymakers, industry, and academia is essential to unlock India 2019s full maritime potential.

Keywords: Maritime infrastructure, Non-major ports, Public-private partnerships, Containerization, Multimodal connectivity, Coastline management

*Professor Emeritus, Gujarat Maritime University; Former Director, IIM Bangalore; Former Dean, IIM Ahmedabad; graghu@iima.ac.in
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