India is set to invest ₹51,383 crore (approximately $6.2 billion USD) to add 62 vessels by FY 2026-27, as part of a strategic push towards self-reliance in the maritime sector. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, chaired a high-level inter-ministerial meeting to review the country's shipping capabilities and the implications of global maritime trade routes. The investment will create an additional 2.85 million Gross Tonnage (GT) capacity, focusing on container vessels, LPG carriers, and green tugs to enhance resilience against external disruptions. Sonowal emphasized the need for a coordinated national effort, instructing departments to prepare a white paper addressing current gaps and setting clear targets for the maritime sector. The meeting concluded with a commitment to strengthen India's position as a globally competitive maritime nation while ensuring the safety and security of Indian seafarers.