India’s maritime sector is charting an ambitious course toward decarbonisation and sustainable ocean governance, with the Directorate General of Shipping outlining a comprehensive strategy to support the country’s net-zero goals and strengthen the Blue Economy’s contribution to national growth.
Speaking on the World Ocean Day special edition of “Green Talk with Anil Pratap Singh” on Munsif TV, Director General of Shipping Shyam Jagannathan, who also serves as Secretary to the Government of India under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), detailed the policy framework that will guide the sector’s green transition and support the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
During the discussion, hosted by scientist and environmental author Dr. Anil Pratap Singh, Jagannathan highlighted the government’s National Maritime Decarbonization Policy Framework, which is built around eight strategic pillars aimed at reducing emissions and modernising the maritime ecosystem.
The framework includes green shipping initiatives focused on improving vessel energy efficiency and adopting alternative low-carbon fuels; green ports aligned with the Harit Sagar Guidelines and Maritime India Vision; sustainable ship recycling in line with the Hong Kong Convention; dedicated green finance mechanisms; workforce upskilling for a just transition; promotion of green fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia and methanol; deployment of digital and smart maritime technologies; and stronger waste management and pollution-control measures.
Jagannathan said India is leveraging its growing renewable energy capacity to become a producer of green marine fuels while fostering innovation and digitalisation across the shipping value chain.
The DG Shipping also underscored the importance of human capital in the sector’s transition. He said the Directorate aims to increase India’s share in the global seafaring workforce from 16.5 per cent to more than 20 per cent. To support this goal, the Directorate has launched ‘Sagar Mein Yoga’, a wellness-focused programme designed to promote emotional, intellectual and financial well-being among seafarers.
In addition, the ‘Sagar Samman’ initiative has been introduced to strengthen gender inclusion and ensure a safe working environment for women in the maritime industry. The programme is backed by a dedicated 24×7 grievance redressal mechanism for female maritime professionals.
Addressing environmental challenges beyond coastal regions, Jagannathan stressed that inland states also have a significant role in protecting marine ecosystems. He noted that untreated sewage, industrial waste and microplastics discharged into rivers eventually flow into the oceans, affecting marine biodiversity and disrupting the ocean’s natural carbon sequestration processes.
He called for greater public participation in river conservation efforts and linked these actions to broader climate goals, including strengthening natural carbon sinks.
On the regulatory front, Jagannathan described the current phase as a landmark period for maritime reforms, with several legacy laws being updated to meet global standards. The reforms are aimed at improving vessel registration, enhancing salvage operations and enabling faster wreck removal.
He highlighted the implementation of the Coastal Shipping Act, 2025, which seeks to boost coastal trade and strengthen India’s transshipment capabilities through emerging maritime hubs such as Vizhinjam Port, Galathea Bay and Vadhavan Port.
Jagannathan also reaffirmed India’s commitment to global ocean governance through its support for the BBNJ Agreement, often referred to as the “Ocean Law” framework, which aims to protect marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
The discussion concluded with a call for stronger integration of climate action and ocean conservation, highlighting the critical role oceans play in regulating the Earth’s climate, absorbing carbon emissions and sustaining marine life.
