(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and the Indian Ports Association (IPA), under the aegis of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), hosted the “Leaders’ Dialogue on Green & Digital Maritime Corridors” in Mumbai today, paving the way for the grand India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025 scheduled in October. The event witnessed the participation of over 300 delegates, including senior government officials, international dignitaries, industry leaders, and maritime stakeholders from across the globe.

In a video address, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India–Singapore bilateral ties have expanded across multiple sectors. Highlighting the significance of the India–Singapore Green & Digital Shipping Corridor, he said it will accelerate the adoption of low-emission technologies, boost digital innovation, and transform maritime operations into green and economically viable trade pathways that will reshape global trade dynamics.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis outlined the state’s maritime roadmap for 2029, 2035, and 2047, announcing that the upcoming Vadhavan Port will rank among the top ten ports globally from day one, ushering in a new era for India’s maritime infrastructure.

From Singapore, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong lauded the 60-year India–Singapore partnership and its potential in green shipping, renewable energy, and maritime innovation. Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow said both nations are “natural allies” in the sector and confirmed that a formal MoU on the Green & Digital Shipping Corridor will be signed in September 2025, offering a strong platform for joint work in technology and sustainability.

T K Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, underscored the role of international corridors—including the IMEEC, INSTC, and EMC—as growth engines driving global maritime integration and sustainable development. He noted that the India–Singapore corridor, initiated through a Letter of Intent in March 2025, aligns with both countries’ priorities in clean energy, smart logistics, and digital innovation.

Joint Secretary (Ports) R Lakshmanan briefed the gathering on IMW 2025 as a flagship platform to showcase India’s maritime capabilities under the theme “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision.”

In his welcome address, Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairman, JNPA, called for creating “greener, smarter, more connected corridors” to advance India’s maritime vision.

The dialogue concluded with a **shared commitment to advancing the India–Singapore Green & Digital Shipping Corridor, supported by ASSOCHAM as Industry Partner and Grant Thornton Bharat LLP as Knowledge Partner.