New Delhi, May 7: Women’s participation in India’s maritime sector is witnessing remarkable growth. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal announced on Thursday that there has been an increase of approximately 340% in women’s involvement in the sector since 2020. He emphasized that the central government is continuously working to make the maritime sector more inclusive, modern, and future-ready.
Speaking at the ’10th Indian Ocean Dialogue’ held in the national capital, Minister Sonowal stated that ‘Nari Shakti’ (women’s power) is emerging as a crucial force in India’s maritime development. He highlighted initiatives like ‘Sagar Mein Samman’ that provide women with new opportunities for respect, leadership, and employment in the maritime field. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, this transformation in the maritime sector is contributing to the development of a strong, inclusive, and future-ready workforce.
He further noted that the Indian Ocean is not just a maritime area but also a lifeline for global trade, energy supply, and supply chains. Therefore, strengthening security, stability, and cooperation in this region is vital. The minister mentioned that India’s maritime policy prioritizes economic growth alongside social empowerment and human-centered development.
Referencing Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Sagar’ and ‘Mahasagar’ vision, Sonowal stated that India is working with all countries in the Indian Ocean region to enhance mutual development and regional cooperation. He stressed that no single country can address maritime challenges alone; collective action is essential.
The statement indicated that this program was held under India’s presidency, as the country will chair the Indian Ocean Rim Association from 2025 to 2027. This year’s dialogue theme is ‘The Indian Ocean Region in a Changing World.’ The event saw participation from ministers, policy experts, academics, and industry representatives from various countries.
Key issues discussed at the event included maritime security, blue economy, climate change, disaster management, and women’s empowerment. Under India’s presidency, IORA has prioritized innovation, openness, resilience, and adaptability, with a special emphasis on women’s economic empowerment.
Sonowal reiterated that India plays a responsible role in humanitarian assistance, maritime surveillance, and disaster relief efforts in the Indian Ocean region. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to building a safe, stable, and prosperous Indian Ocean region in collaboration with all partner countries.
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