India poised to create new maritime history, says Amit Shah

Union Minister for Home Affairs and Cooperation Amit Shah inaugurated the India Maritime Week in Mumbai on Monday. Speaking on the occasion, Shah said that India’s maritime vision is anchored in Safety, Stability, and Self-Reliance. He stated that India is emerging as a strong maritime power due to the comprehensive structural reforms undertaken in recent years. Highlighting India’s maritime potential to investors, the Minister noted that the country has a 7,500 km-long coastline, 13 coastal states and Union Territories and possesses an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 23.7 lakh sq. km. He added that India serves as a vital bridge between the Indo-Pacific region and the Global South owing to its strategic maritime position, democratic stability, and strong naval capabilities.  

#WATCH | Mumbai: Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "India's maritime strength and strategic location are evident from the fact that our coastline is over 11,000 kilometres long. There are 13 coastal states and Union Territories, and our maritime business contributes… https://t.co/elFNtrRP69 pic.twitter.com/JFpud7tYhy

— ANI (@ANI) October 27, 2025

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said that India Maritime Week has evolved into one of the most prominent maritime gatherings in the world, with participation from 85 countries, over 500 exhibitors, and 40 forums. He added that the theme of IMW 2025 – “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision” – reflects the timeless Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Sonowal emphasised that the maritime sector is emerging as one of the strongest pillars of Viksit Bharat.

#WATCH | Mumbai: At India Maritime Week 2025 inauguration event, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal says, "... We have come a long way since the earlier editions of this event. It has grown significantly, with participation from over 85 countries…… pic.twitter.com/y85d4pkzpA

— ANI (@ANI) October 27, 2025

Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis highlighted that the Vadhwan Port will be developed as India’s largest and one of the world’s top ten ports, further strengthening the nation’s maritime power. He also underlined the potential for investment in the fast-developing, robust shipbuilding ecosystem. The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister of Goa Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi, and Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur.