Central Minister Sarbanand Sonowal has positioned global partnership, youth, and women at the core of India's maritime future.

Central Minister Sarbanand Sonewal Clarifies India's Maritime Future Will Be Built on Global Partnerships, Youth Talent, and Women's Participation

In his latest statements on the National Maritime Policy, Central Minister Sarbanand Sonewal clarified that India's maritime future will be established on a triangular foundation of global partnerships, youthful talent, and women's participation. He explained that India has recently strengthened bilateral and multilateral agreements with Japan, Australia, the United States, and several Southeast Asian nations, thereby expanding cooperation in maritime security, technological innovation, and environmental protection. Under these agreements, joint exercises, shared use of maritime surveillance systems, and work on sustainable maritime energy projects will be undertaken, helping India safeguard its strategic maritime boundaries.

Sonewal also emphasized that the participation of youth and women will be prioritized in this strategic direction. He said that the government has established special quotas in maritime academies, technical training centers, and shipbuilding clusters, thereby increasing the presence of women in science‑technology, naval operations, and logistics. Additionally, young entrepreneurs are being provided financial and technical support through maritime start‑ups and innovation forums, giving young people the opportunity to play an active role in areas such as maritime trade, fisheries, and maritime tourism.

These initiatives have been integrated under the national maritime strategy "Samudragami Bharat", whose aim is not only to strengthen maritime security but also to generate sustainable economic benefits from maritime resources. Minister Sonewal expressed optimism that by centering global partnerships along with the power of youth and women, India can further consolidate its position as a leading maritime power in the world.