India’s New Voyage on Future Tides: Green Shipping to Transform Maritime Landscape
To steer the Indian maritime sector toward a new, clean, and eco-friendly direction, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) Sarbananda Sonowal visited the Gwal Pahari campus of TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute) in Gurugram. The core message of the visit was clear: India will no longer merely be a participant in global changes but will lead the world in the era of 'Green Shipping.'
On this occasion, the Union Minister planted a sapling at the campus, conveying a message of environmental conservation. Subsequently, he reviewed the projects being undertaken by the 'National Centre of Excellence for Green Ports and Shipping' (NCoEGPS). A key highlight of the visit was assessing the preparedness of Indian ports regarding green shipping corridors and alternative fuels.
During the review, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal stated unequivocally:
"Green shipping is no longer just an option; it is the future of the world. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is fully prepared to lead this transformation. Our ports must become capable of handling future fuels, and institutions like TERI are vital partners in this endeavor."
Key Highlights and Major Achievements of the Visit
Green Fuel Bunkering Hubs: Deendayal, Paradip, and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authorities shared progress reports on strengthening their infrastructure to support future clean shipping fuels.
Shore Power Facility: Kamarajar Port Limited reported that its coal terminals have now been equipped with shore power supply facilities. This eliminates the need for berthed ships to keep their engines running, thereby significantly reducing carbon emissions. Partnership with Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI): RMI presented a strategy to accelerate the development of low- and zero-emission shipping corridors.
The program concluded with a dialogue session and lunch involving the Minister, senior ministry officials, and representatives from various institutions. This visit clearly signals that India is taking rapid strides to transform its ports and maritime routes into clean, competitive, and future-ready assets on a global scale.