Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar has said that India is strengthening its position as competitive maritime nation, driven by policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, and increased private sector engagement. He also underscored the significant transformation of India's maritime sector in recent years, marked by improved port performance, enhanced global rankings, and growing integration with international trade networks.

The secretary was addressing the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) National Consultative Workshop with Coastal States and Union Territories in New Delhi. The workshop served as a collaborative platform to align national priorities with state-level initiatives, with a focus on accelerating port-led development, strengthening logistics efficiency, and advancing digital and sustainable maritime practices. 

The secretary noted that India's port capacity and operational capabilities are set to expand significantly over the coming decades, supported by ongoing investments, mechanisation, and port-led industrialisation initiatives. He also pointed to the government's focused push on shipbuilding as a strategic priority to enhance India's position in the global maritime value chain.