India targets doubling coastal freight share and new Puri cruise terminal

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has announced ambitious maritime targets for India, aiming to double the share of coastal and inland waterway shipping in the nation's freight movement from 6% to 12% by 2047.

To support these goals, the government is advancing two major initiatives: the Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme and the Cruise Bharat Mission. The latter aims to attract one million sea cruise passengers by 2029 and is expected to generate approximately 400,000 jobs. As part of this strategy, the Paradip Port Authority will develop the Puri International Cruise Terminal in partnership with the Odisha government, with an estimated investment of Rs 1,500 crore.

The Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme, introduced in the 2026-27 budget, will provide incentives to cargo owners, coastal vessel operators, and multimodal transport operators who utilize integrated ship, rail, and road networks. Officials estimate these maritime initiatives could create over 560,000 employment opportunities and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 16 million tonnes.