The Union Minister stressed that India’s expanding port network and growing role in global trade demand resilient, integrated systems capable of countering emerging cyber and geopolitical threats.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has called for a technology‑led transformation of India’s maritime security architecture, reiterating that the country’s expanding port network and growing role in global trade require systems that are resilient, integrated and equipped to counter emerging cyber and geopolitical threats.
Addressing the 2nd National Port Security Conference 2026 in New Delhi, Sonowal said, “India’s ports should be measured not only by cargo throughput and operational efficiency but also by their ability to withstand evolving security risks.” He urged maritime stakeholders to adopt advanced technologies, strengthen institutional coordination and build a future‑ready security ecosystem that supports India’s long‑term maritime ambitions.
“Safe ports create strong trade. Strong trade creates a strong economy. And a strong economy builds a strong nation,” Sonowal said, adding that cyberattacks, drone incursions, supply chain vulnerabilities and threats to digital infrastructure have made maritime security a strategic imperative rather than merely an operational requirement.
He said that the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025, would provide a dedicated institutional framework to strengthen regulatory oversight, standardise security practices and improve coordination among maritime agencies. He also highlighted digital initiatives such as e‑Samudra, the Maritime Single Window and the One Nation One Port Process, stating India’s transition towards smart ports must be accompanied by equally robust cybersecurity and risk management systems.
“We are committed to building a secure, resilient and future‑ready maritime ecosystem that will anchor India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.”
The conference brought together around 140 participants, including senior officials from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, State Maritime Boards, Major Port Authorities, non‑major ports and industry representatives to deliberate on emerging security challenges facing India’s maritime sector.