Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal held a pre-budget meeting with various stakeholders in New Delhi on Monday (1st July 2024). The meeting aimed to facilitate open discussions and gather valuable insights from experts and stakeholders across different sectors. During the meeting, Mr Sonowal highlighted government’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment, encouraging stakeholders to share their suggestions and ideas for nation building.

Akashvani correspondent reports that the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways is committed to developing sustainable, world-class maritime and inland waterways infrastructure to enhance EXIM trade and support economic growth. It is spearheading several strategic initiatives to strengthen India’s maritime sector, focusing on sustainable and world-class infrastructure. Key initiatives include the Sagarmala Programme, with projects worth five thousand one hundred crore rupees, and the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy supporting shipyards. The Harit Nauka initiative will promote green fuel transportation in inland waterways, while the Maritime Development Fund and Ship Owning and Leasing Entity will support financing to boost ship acquisition and Indian ownership.