India’s Sagarmala Programme continues to reshape maritime logistics through port modernisation, improved connectivity and a renewed focus on coastal and inland waterways. Updated figures shared with Parliament show substantial progress across completed, ongoing and planned projects, alongside measurable gains in cargo movement and employment potential. The data was released by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and published by the Press Information Bureau on 24 March 2026.
According to the official government release, 315 projects under the Sagarmala Programme have been completed, 210 are under implementation and a further 320 are at the planning stage. Together, these initiatives aim to strengthen port capacity, enhance multimodal connectivity and reduce logistics costs by shifting freight to waterways.
Port modernisation and connectivity outcomes
Port modernisation remains a central pillar of Sagarmala. A total of 120 completed port modernisation projects have added more than 400 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of new port capacity. In parallel, 106 completed road and rail connectivity projects have strengthened cargo evacuation from ports, helping to ease congestion and improve turnaround times.
These physical infrastructure upgrades align with broader national efforts to modernise logistics systems, including data-driven approaches highlighted in India’s smart logistics and trade initiatives. Together, they are intended to improve supply chain efficiency and competitiveness.
Growth in coastal shipping and inland waterways
The ministry reported strong growth in water-based transport following these interventions. Coastal shipping cargo volumes increased from 87 MTPA to 195 MTPA, representing growth of 118%. Inland waterways cargo expanded more sharply, rising from 18.10 MTPA to 145.50 MTPA, an increase of around 700%.
This modal shift from road and rail to waterways has contributed to lower logistics costs and reduced environmental impact. Similar digital monitoring and coordination approaches are being applied in other freight-intensive sectors, such as those described in India’s coal supply chain reforms.
Employment potential and wider economic impact
Beyond infrastructure, the Sagarmala Programme is expected to have a significant employment impact. Port-led industrialisation and associated infrastructure development are estimated to generate a cumulative employment potential of around 10 million jobs, including 4 million direct and 6 million indirect roles.
The update was provided by Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. The programme’s progress also complements wider governance and economic reforms, including those outlined in India’s digital transformation agenda.
