India eyes 12% coastal freight share by 2047 under new maritime push

India's government is pursuing an ambitious plan to increase the share of freight moved along its coastlines to 12 percent by 2047, according to statements from the shipping minister. The strategy aims to leverage India's extensive maritime infrastructure to reduce reliance on road and rail transport for domestic cargo movement.

The initiative centres on two key schemes: the Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme and the Cruise Bharat Mission. Together, these programmes are projected to create more than 560,000 employment opportunities across India's maritime sector, from port operations to shipbuilding and tourism services.

Environmental benefits form a core component of the push, with officials projecting that increased coastal freight movement will eliminate approximately 16 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually by reducing overland transport. The shift towards sea-based cargo movement is expected to ease congestion on highways and railways while improving the efficiency of India's logistics network.

The coastal development strategy includes a ₹1,500 crore investment in a cruise terminal at Puri, positioning the city as a major maritime tourism hub. This infrastructure project represents part of the broader effort to modernize India's ports and attract both domestic and international cruise operations.

Government officials expect these initiatives to strengthen India's position in regional maritime trade while supporting broader climate and employment objectives.