‘Indo-Pacific Bridge’ - Amit Shah opens maritime week

India’s maritime tradition, tracing roots back 5,000 years, continues to shape global commerce, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the opening of India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai. Addressing delegates at the NESCO Grounds, Shah emphasized that India’s growing naval capabilities are a “crucial bridge between the Indo-Pacific and the Global South.” The five-day event, running from October 27 to 31, is organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways to highlight shipping advances and port development.

Shah referenced historical evidence, noting “India’s sea trade connected Lothal, one of civilization’s oldest dockyards to Egypt,” establishing the nation's ancient maritime prowess. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is preparing to set new milestones in the sector, Shah asserted.

Delegates from more than 100 countries have assembled, underscoring India’s present-day importance in world trade. Over 350 companies are participating, with investment commitments expected to cross ₹10 lakh crore, according to government officials. Shah affirmed the Centre’s readiness to accelerate maritime commerce and said strategic efforts are underway to forge new trade councils with foreign partners.

“We envision transforming the Gateway of India into the Gateway of the World,” Shah declared, citing reforms over the past decade that have propelled India onto the global maritime map. India’s coastline stretches 11,000 km and touches thirteen coastal states and union territories. Maritime activities generate nearly 60% of India’s GDP, he explained, with exclusive economic zones covering 2.37 million sq. km. Nearly 800 million people inhabit India’s coastal regions.

Shah added that 28 nations in the Indian Ocean region contribute about 12% of global exports, highlighting India’s growing influence as an economic and maritime power. The event is expected to sign over 600 MoUs with domestic and international partners this week, further boosting India’s “blue economy” and strategic relevance to global trade.