Minister Sonowal Celebrates India’s Maritime Milestone: First Indian-Flagged Vessel Launched from Nhava Sheva, Paving the Way for Global Shipping Dominance

The arrival of the CMA CGM Vitoria marks a significant milestone for India’s maritime industry. This vessel is notable as the first Indian-flagged ship registered by a global shipping company, officially launched from the Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized how this event aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a self-reliant India. He described the CMA CGM Vitoria as a key player in India’s efforts to increase its fleet of Indian-flagged vessels. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on foreign shipping and strengthen India’s position in global trade.

The CMA CGM Vitoria, with a gross tonnage of 26,836 and a capacity of 2,592 TEUs, will enhance maritime links between India and regions like the Gulf and the Red Sea. Regular stops at Nhava Sheva and Mundra will improve connectivity for Indian businesses.

According to recent statistics, India’s major ports handled 855 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) alone managed 7.3 million TEUs during this period, showcasing the effectiveness of recent policy reforms and infrastructure investments.

Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State in the same Ministry, declared that the CMA CGM Vitoria embodies India’s maritime revival. He pointed out that it not only signifies commercial success but also reflects the international community’s growing confidence in India’s capabilities. This event fits seamlessly into the broader agenda known as the Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which aims to transform India into a global maritime powerhouse.

Further collaboration in shipbuilding, logistics, and container manufacturing was also highlighted, with calls for stakeholders to invest in Indian shipyards. This collective effort aims to bolster India’s maritime sector, supporting the nation’s ambition to thrive in the global shipping arena.

The CMA CGM’s registration in the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) at GIFT City, Gujarat, is another first for foreign shipping lines in India. Such developments point to a future where India plays a more prominent role on the global maritime stage.

As the maritime landscape evolves, these steps not only reinforce India’s trade connections but also create opportunities for economic growth and resilience in the supply chain. This resurgence reflects both the historical significance of India’s maritime heritage and the promising future of its shipping industry.

For more insights on India’s maritime strategy, you can refer to Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

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