India charts green maritime future, targets net zero emissions at major ports by 2047

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

NEW DELHI, JUNE 7, 2025

In a bold declaration of its maritime ambitions, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on Saturday announced that India is firmly committed to achieving net zero emissions at all major ports by 2047. This announcement was made during his interaction with students of the prestigious Blue MBA Executive Programme at Copenhagen Business School (CBS).

Highlighting the central role of sustainability in India’s maritime agenda, Sonowal said, “Sustainability is at the heart of our maritime policy. Our goal is to make India a global epicentre for green shipping and clean trade corridors.” He elaborated on India’s strategic roadmap that includes flagship programmes such as the Sagarmala Programme and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which aim to modernise port infrastructure while driving clean energy adoption, digitalisation, and the development of green ports.

The Minister portrayed India as a dynamic and evolving maritime nation, focused on inclusive, innovative, and sustainable growth. He underscored India’s commitment to maritime decarbonisation through green hydrogen, renewable energy, and digital solutions, reflecting the country’s growing stature in global climate leadership.

Sonowal also applauded Denmark’s pioneering role in energy efficiency and digital shipping, underlining the deepening collaboration between India and Denmark in the domain of green maritime technologies. He said India is working to modernise its maritime sector through policy reforms, strategic investments, and international cooperation, particularly with countries leading in sustainable innovations.

Acknowledging the importance of India’s 7,500 km-long coastline and the fact that over 90% of the nation’s trade volume is conducted by sea, the Minister reiterated that maritime development is a pillar of India’s economic growth strategy. He also spoke of the government’s initiatives to dramatically expand India’s maritime workforce from 7.86 million to nearly 40 million professionals by 2047, with a special emphasis on increasing women’s participation, as demonstrated by the rise in women seafarers from 1,699 in 2014 to over 7,000 in 2024.

The minister’s visit featured in-depth discussions with maritime professionals and academic leaders, reinforcing India’s commitment to global collaboration, sustainable development, and capacity building in the maritime sector.

The event marked a significant step in strengthening India’s international maritime partnerships, particularly with Denmark, and reaffirmed India’s vision to lead the world in clean, green, and smart maritime practices.