India Steps Up Transition to a Green and Sustainable Maritime Ecosystem

India’s ports, which handle nearly 95% of the country’s external trade by volume, have expanded rapidly over the past decade, reinforcing the nation’s trade and economic ambitions. This growth has also brought a sharper focus on managing environmental and operational impacts, prompting a comprehensive shift towards greener maritime practices.

The transition is being driven by a stronger policy and legislative framework, including the Indian Ports Act, 2025, which replaces legacy regulations and embeds sustainability, pollution control, and disaster preparedness into port operations. Strategic roadmaps such as Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 outline a wide range of initiatives spanning renewable energy adoption, emission reduction, water and waste management, safety, and digital monitoring.

Operationally, the Harit Sagar Green Ports Guidelines are translating these goals into measurable targets for emissions, renewable energy usage, equipment electrification, water reuse, and green cover expansion. Ports across India are scaling up solar and wind capacity, introducing shore-to-ship power, improving air quality through electrification and cleaner fuels, and strengthening waste, water, and dredging practices.

Large-scale government programmes, including Sagarmala, Greenfield port developments, green tug transitions, and green hydrogen initiatives, are further accelerating progress. Combined with growing international partnerships on green shipping corridors and low-emission technologies, India’s maritime sector is steadily evolving into a climate-aligned, future-ready ecosystem.