Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday said India aims to become a “leading maritime country” as he unveiled details of the upcoming India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled in Mumbai from October 27 to 31.
Speaking at a regional roadshow organised by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) in Guwahati, Sonowal confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the event, along with maritime ministers from several countries. “The Prime Minister’s presence will add strength and global recognition to our initiative,” he said.
The minister highlighted that traders, industry leaders, and experts from around 100 countries are expected to take part in the week-long programme, which will serve as a platform for investment, collaboration, and policy dialogue to accelerate India’s maritime growth.
The Guwahati roadshow brought together policymakers and stakeholders to deliberate on the future of inland waterways, particularly river cruise tourism and urban water transport.
Union Minister of State for MoPSW Shantanu Thakur, MoPSW Secretary T.K. Ramachandran, and transport ministers from all Northeastern states were also present at the event.