Sagarmala Programme: Enhancing India’s Maritime Sector

The Sagarmala Programme, translated as ‘Garland of the Sea,’ is an ambitious initiative by the Government of India aimed at revolutionizing the country’s logistics sector. This programme seeks to unlock the potential of India’s vast waterways and coastline, reducing logistics costs for both domestic and international cargo through minimal infrastructural investments. As the flagship programme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sagarmala promotes port-led development, positioning India as a global maritime hub.

Vision and Objectives

Sagarmala aims to harness India’s extensive 7,517 km coastline and 14,500 km of navigable waterways. The key objectives of the programme include:

1. Reducing Logistics Costs: Minimizing infrastructure investments while optimizing logistics costs for domestic and EXIM (export-import) cargo.
2. Promoting Port-Led Development: Enhancing port connectivity and industrialization to boost trade efficiency.
3. Improving Economic Competitiveness: Increasing the competitiveness of Indian exports by lowering overall logistics expenses.

Key Components and Pillars

The Sagarmala Programme is structured around five primary pillars:

1. Port Modernization and New Port Development: Upgrading existing ports and developing new ones to accommodate growing trade demands.
2. Port Connectivity Enhancement: Improving connectivity between ports and inland transportation networks, including roads and railways.
3. Port-Led Industrialization: Establishing industrial clusters around ports to facilitate efficient cargo movement and industrial growth.
4. Coastal Community Development: Focusing on the socio-economic upliftment of coastal communities through various development initiatives.
5. Coastal Shipping and Inland Water Transport: Promoting the use of coastal shipping and inland waterways as viable alternatives to road and rail transport.

Implementation and Monitoring

National Perspective Plan (NPP): The NPP for the comprehensive development of India’s coastline and maritime sector was unveiled by the Prime Minister during the Maritime India Summit 2016. This plan outlines the roadmap for Sagarmala’s implementation, identifying key projects and strategic initiatives.

Sagarmala Development Company Limited (SDCL): Incorporated on 31 August 2016, SDCL provides funding support to project Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and assists in the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and feasibility studies. With an initial authorized share capital of ₹1,000 crore, SDCL plays a pivotal role in driving port-led development.

Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation Limited (IPRCL): Established on 10 July 2015, IPRCL focuses on enhancing port-rail connectivity, a critical aspect of the Sagarmala Programme.

Project Synopsis

Under the Sagarmala Programme, 839 projects have been identified for implementation by 2035, with an estimated investment of approximately ₹579,971 crore. As of now:

• Completed Projects: 241 projects worth ₹1.22 lakh crore.
• Projects Under Implementation: 234 projects worth ₹1.8 lakh crore.
• Projects in Development: 364 projects worth ₹2.78 lakh crore.

These projects span various central ministries, state governments, and major ports, with continuous monitoring and coordination to ensure timely execution.

Strategic Importance

Sagarmala serves as both an enabler and beneficiary of other key Government of India schemes, such as Industrial Corridors, Make in India, Startup India, Standup India, Setu Bharatam, Dedicated Freight Corridors, Bharatmala, UDAN-RCS, Digital India, BharatNet, and Parvatmala. By integrating with these initiatives, Sagarmala aims to create a synergistic impact on India’s overall economic landscape.

Impact on Coastal Districts

A total of 567 projects, with an estimated cost of around ₹58,000 crore, have been identified for the holistic development of coastal districts. These initiatives focus on enhancing the quality of life for coastal communities, improving infrastructure, and fostering sustainable development.

The Sagarmala Programme is set to transform India’s maritime sector, driving economic growth and enhancing trade efficiency. By leveraging the country’s strategic geographic location and extensive waterways, Sagarmala aims to position India as a leading global maritime player. The programme’s focus on port-led development, connectivity enhancement, and industrialization promises a brighter future for India’s logistics and maritime sectors.