India sets sail for digital transformation in maritime sector
NEW DELHI : India’s National e-Governance Division (NeGD), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has partnered with the Indian Ports Association (IPA) to drive digital transformation in the maritime sector. This collaboration aims to bridge digital gaps in the port and shipping industries, streamline logistics, and modernize legacy systems.
“This strategic partnership leverages NeGD’s technological expertise and IPA’s comprehensive knowledge of the maritime and logistics sectors at both national and international levels to propel digital innovation in India’s maritime industry,” the Ministry of Electronics and IT stated.
“Key areas of focus include advanced software development, system integration, capacity building, and the adoption of emerging technologies,” the statement said.
The partnership aims to build a strong framework for optimizing logistics systems, improving operational efficiency, and modernizing the port ecosystem. This initiative also creates a technology-driven maritime digital ecosystem by promoting seamless integration and collaboration among stakeholders.
Through this partnership, both NeGD and IPA wish to address longstanding challenges, such as insufficient digital infrastructure in the port and shipping sectors.
The partnership between NeGD and IPA envisions a future where India’s ports are seamlessly interconnected, leveraging real-time data and advanced analytics to optimize operations, minimize turnaround times, and enhance supply chain efficiency. This initiative is poised to elevate India’s maritime capabilities, aligning with the national vision of becoming a global leader in digitally transformed port operations.
As outlined in the Maritime India Vision 2030, the maritime sector is pivotal to India’s trade and economic growth, facilitating 95% of the country’s trade volume and 65% of its trade value via maritime transport.
With a 7,500-km coastline, 12 major ports, and 187 minor ports, India is emerging as a significant hub for shipping and transshipment. The government’s modernization agenda includes adopting advanced technology, digitization, and renewable energy to make ports smarter, safer, and more sustainable. Key proposals include increasing the capacity of existing ports, establishing new ports and maritime clusters, and implementing cutting-edge technologies to boost port efficiency. These efforts aim to improve multi-modal connectivity at ports, expand the role of coastal shipping and inland waterways, and strengthen India’s position as a maritime powerhouse.
A Global Tech Superpower in the Making
India is rapidly advancing its position as a global tech superpower by embracing emerging technologies and fostering innovation. In a significant move, the country approved over $1.24 billion for the IndiaAI Mission last year, a funding initiative aimed at strengthening the AI ecosystem, promoting entrepreneurship, and driving technological innovation. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s government envisions artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies like blockchain as pivotal in achieving the Viksit Bharat (Developed India) goal by 2047.
“In 2024, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) spearheaded initiatives to enhance India’s digital progress, with a particular focus on AI, cybersecurity, and skill development. These efforts aim to democratize technology, foster innovation, and solidify India’s position on the global technology stage,” MeitY stated.
To further bolster its innovation ecosystem, MeitY has constituted an inter-ministerial committee comprising senior representatives from key departments, including the Department of Telecom (DoT), Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), and NITI Aayog. Chaired by the Secretary of MeitY, the committee will evaluate global best practices in robotics and recommend strategies to build a robust ecosystem for research, design, manufacturing, and industrial applications of robotics. The government has also invited public consultation on its proposals.
Additionally, MeitY has partnered with the Indian Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) and Bain & Company to create a comprehensive strategy report. This initiative aligns with India’s ambitious goal of achieving a $500 billion electronics production value by 2030, reinforcing the nation’s role as an innovation and manufacturing hub in the global technology landscape.