Launched in March 2015, is the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

• It aims to accelerate economic development in the country by harnessing the potential of India’s 7,500 km long coastline and 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways.
  • It also aims to reduce logistics costs for both domestic and EXIM cargo.
• National Sagarmala Apex Committee (NSAC) is the apex body for policy direction and oversight of the Programme.
• Programme is divided into 5 pillars and 24 categories (see infographics)
• The government is advancing in the Sagarmala Programme with Sagarmala 2.0, focusing on shipbuilding, repair, recycling, and port modernization.

Achievement of the Programme

• Projects: 272 projects have been completed, which account for an investment of approximately 1.41 lakh crores.
• Global Ports Ranking: 9 Indian ports are among the world’s top 100, with Vizag in the top 20 container ports globally.
• Launched Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative (S2I2): To foster innovation and entrepreneurship in India’s maritime sector.
• Coastal Shipping Growth: 118% growth in the last decade, lowering logistics costs and carbon emissions.
• Inland waterway: 700% surge in cargo movement, easing congestion on roads and railways.