Sonowal calls for Tech-Led Security as India's port network grows

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Thursday called for a technology-led transformation of India’s maritime security architecture, saying the country’s expanding port network and growing role in global trade require resilient, integrated and future-ready security systems capable of addressing emerging cyber and geopolitical threats. Addressing the 2nd National Port Security Conference 2026 in New Delhi, Sonowal said India’s ports should be evaluated not only by their cargo handling capacity and operational efficiency but also by their preparedness to withstand evolving security challenges. “Safe Ports create Strong Trade. Strong Trade creates a Strong Economy. And a strong economy builds a strong Nation,” the Minister said, stressing that cyberattacks, drone incursions, supply chain vulnerabilities and threats to digital infrastructure have made maritime security a strategic imperative rather than merely an operational concern.

Security of our Ports is a shared National Responsibility. pic.twitter.com/sLCxbKfiZ8

— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) August 6, 2026

The conference brought together around 140 participants, including senior officials from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Indian Navy, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), State Maritime Boards, major port authorities, non-major ports and industry representatives to deliberate on emerging security challenges facing India’s maritime sector.The conference also featured technical sessions on the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, cyber security, geopolitical risks affecting global shipping and emerging best practices in maritime security.